Zimpapers Logo

Raj Modi

Sikhumbuzo Moyo Senior Sports Reporter
THE Bulawayo Youth Games team is in arrears amounting to more than $140,000 that it owes its creditors, it has since emerged.
The province is already preparing for this year’s Zimbabwe National Youth Games which will be held in the city of Masvingo from August 16 to 25.

In his update on the state of preparedness for Team Bulawayo during a meeting of the provincial board, members of the organising committee and the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Nomthandazo Moyo on Tuesday, the chief executive officer of the Bulawayo Youth Games organising committee and renowned businessman Raj Modi said the debt excludes the running expenses for preparations for this year’s games.

“We are cognisant that we came into office when there was an excess of $140,000 but now we are in debt and we have to clear this debt,” said Modi.

He said it was their hope that by the end of their two-year term of office, the committee would leave some legacy.

“Our vision of coming up with a provincial sporting excellence village is inevitable and we are sure through you and with your support we will achieve this,” said Modi.

Bulawayo Province, who dethroned Harare in last year’s Games which were held in the city, will send a strong contingent of 260 athletes in their bid to defend the crown.

Meanwhile, in her brief remarks, Minister Moyo challenged Team Bulawayo to go to Masvingo and defend their crown.

“I will be very proud if you come back from Masvingo as the champions again,” said Minister Moyo before promising the board that she will be there throughout the Games to land moral support to the team.

The Sport and Recreation Commission provincial co-ordinator for Bulawayo, Sam Dzvimbu said the provincial team will be in camp for five days before departure for the 12th edition of the annual sporting extravaganza.

Minister Moyo pledged 100kgs of rice for the team while in camp and also said she would also donate tomatoes and cabbages on a daily basis.