Siziba Thando
Sports reporter
The Khumalo Hockey Stadium in Bulawayo was a vibrant hub of activity as it hosted the Women in Sport Festival in celebration of women’s month.
Bringing together athletes, advocates, and community leaders, the event concluded with a powerful consensus: sport is a critical tool for personal development, mental wellness, social cohesion, and economic empowerment.
Held under the theme “Giving Opportunities, Gaining Empowered Women Through Sport and Recreation,” the festival saw women and girls from across the province participate in a variety of sporting disciplines. The atmosphere was electric as athletes showcased their skills in netball, football, volleyball, and running, demonstrating the depth of female sporting talent in the region.
Beyond the competition, the festival served as an important platform for education and advocacy. Addressing the attendees, Mrs. S. Nyathi, a guest speaker from the National AIDS Council, delivered a crucial message on health awareness. She advised that for women to participate optimally in sports, they must be knowledgeable about their well-being. Mrs. Nyathi provided practical advice on ways women can protect themselves, emphasizing that good health is the foundation of a successful athletic career.
The event also drew high-level governmental support. Representing the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, the Acting Director of Finance, Administrator, and Human Resources, Minister Ndaguwa S., addressed the gathering. While acknowledging the strides made in women’s sports, he issued a sobering reminder that the work is far from complete.
“As much as there has been progress, there is still a lot of women who are left behind in sports and recreation,” Minister Ndaguwa S. stated, calling on stakeholders to bridge the gap and ensure that opportunities reach every corner of the community.
As the festival drew to a close at Khumalo Hockey Stadium, the overarching message resonated clearly with the crowd of participants and supporters. The event successfully highlighted that sport is far more than just competition.
The Women in Sport Festival continues to grow as a cornerstone event in Bulawayo, championing the role of athletics in building healthier, stronger, and more empowered communities.
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