Mugabe officially opens Region V Youth Games

PRESIDENT Robert Mugabe yesterday said the Region V Youth Games had rejuvenated Bulawayo which had been literary destroyed by de-industrialization and created employment for its inhabitants.

He was speaking at the official opening of the African Union Sports Council Region 5 Under-20 Youth Games that are hosted by Bulawayo.

Mugabe said the games had, in many respects, changed the landscape of Bulawayo. He said since November 2012, when the country signed the protocol agreement, the government had immensely improved the local infrastructure of sport competition venues, accommodation facilities, road and communication networks.

"The games have therefore brought numerous business opportunities for local enterprises," he said. "They've also created employment opportunities for our people in Bulawayo and those from the surrounding areas and from even far afield."
But Mugabe's sentiments came amid complaints by Bulawayo civil society who have accused organizers of employing Harare companies at the expenses of locals.

President Mugabe also said the games in Bulawayo at this point in time had, indeed, provided fundamental support for Zim-Asset.

"I appreciate that it has taken a lot of dedication and commitment to organise the regional games. It has required teamwork and maximum effort from everyone involved. I accordingly wish to congratulate you all, the Regional and Local Organising Committees and the respective chairpersons on your thorough preparations which undoubtedly assure us of successful sporting competitions," he said.

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Andrew Langa said the city would not remain the same after the games adding that infrastructure in the city had been improved significantly, a move that will not be forgotten by the people of Bulawayo.