Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela once said “Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire, it has the power to unite people in a way that little else does”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Masakhaneni implements its programs in communities where prevalence of party politics has been one of the major causes of conflicts amongst people in rural areas. These conflicts escalate even more during the build up to elections with some turning to violence. Every program or project in these areas is usually politicized and development work by NGOs has not been spared either. The young folks most of whom are usually are unemployed are used as pawns to canvass for political figures and in the process creating tensions and divisions among neighbours and community members at large. These political fissures are usually carried forwards into the people’s daily lives. Simple food hand- outs from the government and other well- wishers are then diverted and given along party lines to punish those that would be perceived as opposition party supporters.

It is because of this background that Masakhaneni has used sports for the young to provide a platform of creating an environment in which people (of differing views) can come together to work towards the same goal, show respect for others and foster positive interactions while building tolerance amongst individuals. Sports bridges divides as it highlights commonalities between people that are worth celebrating. In addition to the advantages to peace building efforts, sports also have positive implications for mental and physical health as well promoting the development of skills such as discipline, confidence and leadership.

Masakhaneni held a youth sports peace building tournament at Enyandeni on the 20th of August 2019 which attracted youths from different villages in their teams. This activity managed to defuse some of the differences among political parties leadership, were for the first time in the history of Enyandeni community the MDC councilor managed to share the podium with a ZANU-pf councilor candidate who had lost in the previous elections. The occasion was also graced by a National Peace and Reconciliation official who officiated the event. The participants also pledged to be peace ambassadors in their communities in addition to participating in the event. It is hoped many more such tournaments will be held by the communities on their own. Below are some of the pictures of the winning teams and participants.