Stung by a streak of poor results for the provinces flagship rugby outfit – Mutare Sports Club – the Manicaland Province is making moves to ensure all school in Manicaland recognize the importance of having rugby on their extra curriculum activities.

Speaking during a meeting which brought together Zimbabwe Rugby Union leadership, Manicaland rugby stakeholders, NGO Rebuild Sakubva Trust members from United Kingdom (UK) on Saturday, Manicaland chairman Chiwandire said rugby must be played in all schools in the province.

“Today (Saturday) I was at Zamba Primary School when the gentlemen from UK came and we discussed sports. When I went to witness the basketball match they organised that’s when I discovered that they are giving to the community to improve our community. Then I said I should be able to develop my community through rugby as well.

“Sport brings people together therefore I want rugby in Manicaland to bring the people together. Therefore rugby should be played in all schools across the province and all the districts,” added Chiwandire.

Chiwandire’s sentiments came hard on the heels of a match in which Mutare Sports Club, affectionately known as ‘the Shumbas’, once again lost to Police Defenders, 26-17.

Zimbabwe Rugby Union vice-president Nody Kanyangarara applauded the idea and promised to do anything in his power to ensure that the idea comes to fruition.

“This is a good idea and we will sit and make all arrangements to develop the idea. I have come today to see the state of the game of rugby in Manicaland,” said Kanyangarara.

 However, issues of resource shortages were emphasized with Rebuild Sakubva Trust (UK) agreeing to help the rugby leadership in the province realize their dream.