"Sports for Peace" Tournament Aims to Bridge Divides and Promote Tolerance

Centre for Conflict Management & Transformation (CCMT) under the auspices of the Peacebuilding Network of Zimbabwe (PBNZ) held "Sports for Peace 2024" tournament at the Old Hararians Sports Club on Friday, 13 September 2024.The aim was to promote peace, tolerance, and social cohesion.

Women from Epworth posing for a picture after lifting the trophy

Photo credit: Fine Line Media

The tournament brought together over 150 women and youth from Epworth and Seke Rural, fostering an atmosphere of friendship and cooperation. Various sports including football, volleyball, and netball were featured, giving participants from both communities the opportunity to engage in friendly matches while showcasing their skills and sportsmanship.

Beyond the competitive spirit, the tournament served as a platform for participants to interact, forge new friendships, and build stronger community bonds.

Epworth  women and youth celebrating winning the sports  for peace tournament at Old Hararians sports Club

Photo credit : Fine line Media

Vimbai, the project officer at PBNZ, emphasized the unifying power of sports, stating, "Sports have the power to bring people together, regardless of their backgrounds." She expressed hope that through these friendly competitions, a sense of unity and cooperation could be fostered among women and young people, empowering them as agents of peace in their communities.

Seke-Rural women and youth strategizing their game plan before their netball game against Epworth women and youth from Epworth at Old Hararians Sports Club

Photo credit :Fine line Media

The event was a learning space for the participants as they took lessons from the fun that they had. “We are so happy to be taking part in this event today, it is a day of relaxing and having fun but at the same time, we are noting down the skills for peace building. Sports teach us to be team players, and we should apply that in the communities as agents of peacebuilding, I am having fun and learning at the same time” said one youth from Epworth.

Women and youth posing for a picture at the Sports for Peace Tournament at Old Hararians

Photo credit: Fine Line Media

“The respect we have shown each other today, the passion and the spirit of working together should also continue when we go back to our communities. This event strengthened our bond and boosted our confidence, now we can be the peacemakers in our communities” expressed a Seke Rural lady.

The CCJP National Coordinator expressed their support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of sports in promoting peace and understanding. "Sports have the power to unite people from all walks of life," they stated. "By coming together for this tournament, we are demonstrating that we can overcome our differences and work towards a more harmonious society."

Caroline Kadowe CCJP-Harare Project Officer delivering the closing remarks and vote of thanks during the sports for peace tournament at Old Hararians Sports Club

Photo Credit: Fineline Media

The tournament placed particular emphasis on women and youth, with the goal of empowering them and offering opportunities for leadership and personal growth. By involving these groups, the organizers sought to create a lasting impact on the community.

The "Sports for Peace 2024" event was a tremendous success, highlighting the positive influence that sports can have on communities. As the final whistle blew, the message of peace and unity resonated throughout the community. The organizers expressed their hope that the tournament would catalyse continued efforts to promote social cohesion and build a more peaceful future for Harare.