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Takudzwa Chitsiga and Tedious Manyepo
Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army Lieutenant General Philip Valerio Sibanda has saluted the Premier Soccer League and soccer fans for supporting the organisation’s initiative to raise funds for charity.

The ZNA have been hosting the Commander’s Charities Shield tournament every season, starting with two teams in 2013 to eight sides this season.

Highlanders will host ZPC Kariba at Barbourfields in the final of this year’s edition at a date to be decided.

Other teams that participated in the tournament this year include CAPS United, Harare City, Dynamos, FC Platinum, Chapungu and How Mine.

Speaking during a charities ball at Zimbali Gardens in Greendale last week, Sibanda said he was grateful to the PSL and soccer fans as he revealed that the tournament has so far grossed $61 840,80.

“I would like to express my profound gratitude to the PSL, ZIFA and the football supporters for the part they play in ensuring that we address the plight of our underprivileged members and their dependants. We are appealing to soccer fans to come in their numbers to witness the final to be played between Highlanders and ZPC Kariba on a date that will be confirmed to you,” he said.

The proceeds realised from the tournament go towards the ZNA’s five charitable organisations which include, Tsanga Lodge Convalescence Centre, Patients Welfare Fund, Benevolent Fund, Widows and Orphans Fund as well as the Schools Welfare Trust Fund.

Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) inter-unit sports tournament was officially opened to mark the return of the prestigious event.

The tournament was last held in 2009 and will return with eight disciplines this time around.

During yesterday’s address, Brigadier General Fidelis Mhonda said they are happy to see the event returning and will continue to support sport in the army.

“It has been a long time since the last unit sports competitions in 2009.

“Today, (yesterday) marks the beginning of another sporting competition.

“For the past weeks most of you have been busy preparing for this prestigious competition, hence we expect this to be more competitive,” said Mhonda.

A total of eight disciplines — soccer, netball, chess, volleyball, darts, snooker, volleyball and athletics — will be featured.