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Fungai Lupande Mash Central Bureau
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has donated Takkyu volley, Frisbee and Bocci sports equipment to people with disabilities in Bindura.

The donation is a way to promote their social participating.

Takkyu volley, frisbee and bocci are new sports being introduced to Zimbabwe.

Speaking at the handover ceremony last week, JICA country representative Mr Shumon Yoshiara said Japan had a desire to promote international cooperation in social, economic, culture and technical development in developing countries.

“Since its inception in Zimbabwe JICA has assisted several Government officials, parastatals and non governmental organisations in Zimbabwe through supporting various capacity building training programmes in Japan and developing countries,” said Mr Yoshiara.

“A staff member from the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Mr Samuel Mashatise was in Japan for training on promotion of social participation of persons with disabilities through sports in July this year.

Mr Yoshiara presented his action plan and the deputy director of Japan table tennis association Mr Horikawa was impressed and donated a set of table tennis for the blind in Zimbabwe and Vanuatu.

“I am delighted to handover the sports equipment, he said. Sports for people with disabilities are of paramount importance as they can elevate one’s lifestyle and build confidence.”

Foemer Minister of State for Mashonaland Central Provincial Affairs Advocate Martin Dinha said he supported the initiative by JICA to promote takkyu volley, frisbee and bocci, which are new types of sport that could be played by everyone regardless of physical handicap.

“Japan is an all-weather friend and they have done a lot for the province from demining activities in Mukumbura and construction of schools,” said Adv Dinha.

“Sports has been very low and it is worrisome that the province does not have a culture of sports. Our effort to promote sports for people with disabilities is far below the need of people with disabilities who are out there with challenges of equipment and facilities for use during sport.

JICA’s coming in to assist with the equipment we want to kick start a programme amongst people with disabilities. The benefits from sports are immeasurable, including joy of efforts, fair play, responsible behaviour, health benefits, stress reduction and socialisation, among others.

We are going to support the initiative and make sure that these sport codes become part of the national Paralympic and Danhiko games.”

Chairperson of people with disabilities Mr Addula Mukanyela called on his colleagues to become more visible in sporting activities.

“We want the new sports to be introduced in all districts, he said. People with disabilities are not visible in the sporting arena. I urge members to participate in sports programmes.”