TONGANYIKA Trust, in partnership with ZIFA Mashonaland East, will headline a eventful weekend of grassroots football at the historic Rudhaka Stadium, hosting an eight-team festival backed by a US$5,000 sponsorship.
In a joint statement, the organisers said the Tonganyika Trust Football Tournament launching on Friday, with matches starting Saturday morning, is “aimed at promoting football development and strengthening competitive football in the province,” adding the financial injection “reflects the Trust’s continued commitment to youth empowerment, sport development and community upliftment.”
The confirmed line-up pits four stalwarts from last season’s ZIFA Mashonaland East Division Two against four vibrant new affiliates. On the schedule are Hukuru FC, Hunyani United FC, Chibamu FC and Bhundu Rollers Academy, alongside Joyce Mine FC, Rusununguko Academy, Ghetto Pirates and Axom College.
Tonganyika Trust, a charitable foundation championed by Hunyani legislator and Deputy Minister of Tourism, Tongai Mnangagwa, is driving the initiative as part of a broader youth agenda.
“Sport is an important platform for youth empowerment and community development,” Mnangagwa said.
“Through the Tonganyika Trust Tournament, we want to give talented young players in Mashonaland East an opportunity to showcase their abilities while promoting discipline, teamwork and positive community values. Tonganyika Trust is proud to support initiatives that nurture grassroots talent and strengthen our communities.”
ZIFA Mashonaland East chairperson Gerald Sasa welcomed the partnership, describing the US$5,000 backing as a timely boost for the province’s football structures and a window for rising players.
“We commend Tonganyika Trust for supporting football development in Mashonaland East,” Sasa said.
“This tournament will increase competition among our top teams and provide an excellent platform for talent identification. Partnerships of this nature are key to ensuring sustainable growth of the game within our province.”
The competition format will see the eight teams split into two groups of four for a round-robin phase. The top two from each pool advance to the semi-finals, with winners proceeding to a grand final to crown the inaugural champions.
With Rudhaka set for a carnival of football and community spirit, Mashonaland East’s young talents are poised for a radiant new chapter.
