Zimbabwe Cricket’s rural development program bears fruit
ZIMBABWE Cricket’s Cricket Kumusha-Cricket Ekhaya initiative has successfully trained 241 participants in coaching and umpiring courses across the country, the association revealed.
Between January and April, the development drive conducted basic coaching, Level 1 coaching, and Grade D umpiring courses in all the 10 provinces, targeting rural communities.
Of the 241 trained, 191 received basic coaching certification, 19 completed Level 1 coaching, and 31 undertook umpiring training.
The training sessions were hosted at schools, teacher training colleges, and sports clubs, showcasing growing interest in cricket at grassroots level. Notably, 60 physical education students were trained at Belvedere Teachers College, equipping them to promote the game in schools.
ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni said the initiative is about transforming lives through sport, laying the foundation for future national players from rural communities.
“Cricket Kumusha-Cricket Ekhaya is more than just a training programme – it’s about transforming lives through sport,” he said.
“By investing in grassroots coaching, umpiring and talent identification, we are laying the foundation for future national players from rural communities.”
The next phase includes establishing local leagues, enhancing school competitions, and conducting scoring courses. Despite challenges, ZC remains committed to scaling up the project, with plans to upgrade playing fields and provide equipment to beginner teams.
“From Gwanda to Murehwa, we have seen the hunger for cricket is there. Now it’s our job to feed it,” Makoni said.
ZC’s Coach Education Officer and Cricket Kumusha-Cricket Ekhaya programme coordinator, Lazarus Razau added:
“This marks a significant milestone in our quest to take cricket to every corner of Zimbabwe,” he said.
“What’s particularly encouraging is the diverse participation, including teachers, club representatives, community members and even members of the police service.”
