GUTU – Member of Parliament for Gutu South and ZANU PF Chief Whip, Hon. Pupurai Togarepi, has encouraged young people in his constituency to take sport seriously, stressing that it is not only a form of recreation but also a viable and rewarding career.
Speaking at the launch of the Gutu South Sports Tournament at Maungwa High, Hon. Togarepi said sport was now a multi-billion-dollar industry that offers life-changing opportunities for talented and disciplined young people.
“Sport is a career that pays, and we have Zimbabwean examples to prove it,” Hon. Togarepi said. “Look at Marshall Munetsi, who is now playing in the English Premier League for Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Marvellous Nakamba, who has also made his mark in top-flight football. These are young men who rose from humble beginnings, yet today they are providing for their families and inspiring an entire nation.”
Hon. Togarepi said he was investing in sporting activities across Gutu South to give young people platforms to showcase their talents while also keeping them away from destructive behaviours such as drug and substance abuse.
Through his sponsorship, the constituency is hosting football, netball, volleyball and athletics tournaments. These tournaments, he explained, are not only keeping youth engaged but also serving as scouting grounds for talented players who can be linked with local Premier Soccer League (PSL) giants such as Dynamos, Highlanders, CAPS United, and even international clubs.
“We are serious about sport in Gutu South. These tournaments will help identify future stars who can go all the way to the top leagues, just like Munetsi and Nakamba. Our youth must see themselves as potential professionals, not just participants,” Hon. Togarepi said.
Young participants at the tournament praised the initiative, saying it gives them a chance to dream bigger and work harder towards a professional career.
Hon. Togarepi concluded by reaffirming his vision for a youth-empowered constituency: “If our young people take sport seriously, coupled with discipline, there is no limit to what they can achieve. The next Premier League star could be right here in Gutu South.”
