Vhembe's annual indigenous games were once again held at the Makhado Show Grounds this past weekend, bringing together youths from the Musina, Collins Chabane, Thulamela, and Makhado municipalities to showcase their talents in various indigenous sports.
The event, which took place on Saturday (8 July), featured games such as diketo, dibeke, ncuva, kho-kho, kgati, driestokkies, jukskei, marabaraba, and lintonga. The winners in each category will go on to represent the district at the provincial tournament.
Cllr Dowelani Nenguda, the executive mayor of Vhembe District Municipality, graced the occasion and expressed his support. "We take pride in our culture, and these indigenous games are a reflection of our cultural heritage. Our youths are the future leaders, and hosting such games helps them connect with their historical background. This demonstrates that our culture will continue to be respected for years to come."
Nenguda added that the indigenous games also fostered social cohesion among different communities. "Next year, I intend to invite Zimbabweans to participate in this tournament. We have heard that our neighbours across the Limpopo River to the north also play similar games. It is important to include them, as it represents an African identity," he stated.
According to Thagalu Thovhakale, the Vhembe District director of sports and culture, the indigenous games also promote youth health through physical training.