Lupane, Zimbabwe – In a powerful call for unity and progress, Hon. Mxolisi Charles Sibanda, Member of Parliament for Lupane West, urged constituents to disengage from the perpetual political campaigns that have become a staple of community life. Speaking at the Chitetete grounds during a tournament he sponsored, which saw six teams competing for kit balls and cash prizes of USD $50, Hon. Sibanda emphasized that development should be prioritized over political affiliations.

“It’s disheartening to witness our community spending most of its time in a campaign mood, dividing itself along political lines,” Hon. Sibanda stated. “Elections come and go, but development is a continuous process and an essential need for our people.”

The tournament, which attracted a large turnout, was not only a celebration of local talent but also served as a platform for Hon. Sibanda to address pressing community issues. He highlighted the detrimental impact of political polarization on development, asserting that such divisions hinder progress and economic growth.

“As a community, we must recognize that our strength lies in unity,” he said. “When we segregate ourselves by party lines, we lose sight of what truly matters—improving our livelihoods and building a better future for our children.”

Councillor Tendai Dube, representing Ward 3 on the Kusile Rural District Council, echoed Hon. Sibanda’s sentiments, reinforcing the necessity for a collective approach to community development. “It is time we put aside our political differences and work together,” Dube remarked. “The challenges we face—be it in education, healthcare, or infrastructure—are not bound by political ideologies. They affect us all.”

The tournament showcased the vibrant sporting culture within the constituency, with participants from various backgrounds coming together to compete in a spirit of camaraderie. The event was seen as a much-needed distraction from the political tensions that have been prevalent in the area.

Hon. Sibanda took the opportunity to highlight some of the developmental initiatives underway in Lupane West. He spoke about ongoing projects aimed at improving access to clean water and enhancing educational facilities. “We are working tirelessly to ensure that our schools have the resources they need to provide quality education,” he noted.

He also mentioned plans for infrastructural development, including the construction of roads that would improve access to markets for local farmers. “Our farmers are the backbone of our economy,” he said. “By improving their access to markets, we can boost local production and create job opportunities.”

The call for unity was further emphasized during the prize-giving ceremony, where Hon. Sibanda encouraged participants to view one another not as rivals but as partners in development. “Winning and losing are part of the game,” he said. “What truly matters is the spirit of teamwork and collaboration that we foster in our community.”

Local resident and tournament participant, Thabani Ndlovu, expressed his support for Hon. Sibanda’s message. “It’s refreshing to hear our leaders talk about unity and development instead of politics,” he said. “We need more events like this to bring us together and focus on what we can achieve as a community.”

As the tournament concluded, the atmosphere was charged with optimism. Hon. Sibanda’s vision for a united Lupane West resonated deeply with attendees, igniting a collective desire for change. The event served as a reminder that despite the political landscape, the core values of cooperation and community spirit remain paramount.

In an age where political divisions often overshadow communal needs, Hon. Mxolisi Charles Sibanda’s appeal for development over divisiveness offers a hopeful path forward. As the community reflects on his words, the hope is that they will embrace the call for unity and channel their energies into building a brighter future for all.

The tournament not only celebrated local talent but also served as a pivotal moment for the community to reconsider its priorities, focusing on development and collaboration rather than division. As the sun set over the Chitetete grounds, the message was clear: together, the people of Lupane West can forge a path to progress.