TATENDA CHIKARA IN MASVINGO
The Masvingo Wheelchair Tennis Association (MWTA) has lost sponsorship deals owing to the adverse impact of Covid-19 pandemic, it has emerged. MWTA provincial chairperson, Moses Chitombo, confirmed the association has parted ways with its significant sponsors.
“We, the disabled persons were affected severely with Covid 19 restrictions, especially in Masvingo wheelchair tennis. We had built a strong relationship with the business people, institutions and individuals who were helping us during our tournaments such as the Danhiko Paralympics and national Paralympics,” Chitombo told Business Times.
The closure of sporting activities due to lockdown restrictions and loss of sponsorship have affected children with disabilities.
“Looking at the children with disabilities, in sport they had already set their vision that if they participated at district competitions, provincial and at national level, one day they would participate at international level,” Chitombo said.
He added: “….But, because of this pandemic, they are now in panic and even affected mentally as they no longer know how bright their future is,” he said.
The Institute for Community Development in Zimbabwe’s disability inclusion officer, Yemurai Ngoma, echoed the same sentiments saying sports for the disabled lacked support.
“Sports for the disabled have a lot of challenges from a lack of support to a lack of resources and equipment,” she said.
