Residents of New Lobengula in Bulawayo have raised alarm over the reported sale of a youth sports field, saying the move could rob young people of a safe recreational space and drive them towards drugs and substance abuse.
Community members said they were shocked to learn through WhatsApp groups that the field had been earmarked for development, claiming they were never consulted by their councillor.
“When young people don’t have a place to play, they will turn to drugs,” said resident Mkhokheli Musara. “As locals, we ask that they find another location for their structures rather than on this ground.”
Others described the development as a setback for a city renowned for producing football talent.
“Bulawayo is well-known for its football. Players like Peter Ndlovu grew up here,” said health advocate Edmond Ntini.
“If it is true that the grounds at the Lobengula Youth Centre are being used for educational purposes, that will be a disgrace. Given the problems with drugs and substance abuse, that area could be completely transformed to draw in young people and educate them.”
Ntini argued that the city council should instead partner with businesses and the diaspora community to revive youth sporting facilities.
“That area could be used for athletics, and some people could find employment in maintaining it. Sports are a multimillion-dollar sector, and it is disheartening that a city like Bulawayo does not recognise the value of the arts and sports industries,” he added.
However, Ward 11 councillor Susan Sithole dismissed fears that the sports grounds were under threat, insisting that the proposed development involves an adjacent stand.
“Land is currently being allocated through the land alienation policy. It should be noted that the stand was allocated in 2003. A report was submitted to council, it was approved, and the applicant was given an offer,” Sithole said.
She stressed that the sports field would not be affected. “The site for the community centre is adjacent to the sporting facilities. Community centres serve the interests of the public, and as such there should be no conflict.”
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