By Farai Makopa
fsmakopa@gmail.com
Sebakwe – Politicians, community leaders, and residents of Sebakwe gathered for a sports event to celebrate World Rhino Day and demonstrate their commitment to protecting these endangered animals. The event, hosted by the Midlands Black Rhino Conservancy (MBRC), featured thrilling matches in netball and soccer, while also raising awareness about the importance of rhino conservation.
Jacob Chokururama, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Chirumhanzu – Zibagwe constituency; Ward 2 Councilor, Basilio Mutosvori and Chief Ndabezinhle Gwesela’s representative, Headman Vandirai – spent a sunny Sunday afternoon trading rhetoric for results, ahead of the World Rhino Day which is celebrated on the 22nd of September every year: demonstrating their commitment to black rhino preservation.
Joined by other community leaders and government officials, this collective effort, showcased a united front in protecting these majestic creatures at the sports event held in Sebakwe, Zimbabwe on August 25.
The Black Rhino Whisperer: Brilliant Chibura’s Passionate Pursuit in Conservation
Brilliant Chibura’s exceptional leadership as the Conservator of The Midlands Black Rhino Conservancy (MBRC), sets a benchmark for rhino conservation excellence. Brilliant Chibura shatters the myth that protecting endangered species and promoting eco-tourism are mutually exclusive. Who knew? This innovative approach successfully balances conservation and sustainable tourism, boosts local economies while safeguarding rhinos. The MBRC through a unified effort, spearheaded by Chibura’s operational team, sets a new standard for responsible wildlife preservation and community-driven eco-tourism initiatives.
The MBRC itself is one of the country’s rhino species ambassadors. “We raise awareness against poaching and unnecessary attacking of wildlife,” Mr. Chibura said. The MBRC was formed in 1987 in order to save the black rhino which were being slaughtered by cross border poachers, and its mandate has been successful in its endeavours to date; despite being in a heavily infested farming and mining community where rhinos in the past have been victims of traps and poisoning of mining chemicals.
Sports: The Ultimate Youth Detox
The afternoon of August 25 brought thrilling matches in netball and soccer replacing substance abuse with sweat and teamwork. Imagine that – constructive engagement instead of empty promises! Youth focus on goals, not gangs; a distraction from harmful habits and focusing on positive goals. By leveraging sports, the event encouraged healthy lifestyles, community building, and environmental awareness, ultimately supporting the conservation of endangered black rhinos, according to the well-spoken Chibura.
The local teams present saw both women and men, passionate in sports, also, spearheading the promotion of rhino conservation. A oneness which is rare to find these days. The MBRC hosted this successful event, to fully conscientise locals, the surrounding community of how delicate the rhino is. Especially how few they are within society, and, are prone to poaching. With Zimbabwe holding the fourth largest population of rhinos (white and black combined); however, black rhinos being way – way less than 700 in number, nationally.
Wildlife Wisdom: Don’t Poke the Rhino
Chokururama’s simple yet sage advice: “Respect animals, and they’ll return the favor.” Novel concept, right? Co-existence is key to conservation.
Clean Water: No Longer a Pipe Dream
Chokururama’s constituency’s borehole project quenches rural communities’ thirst. “So far, we have fifteen boreholes in Zibagwe; twenty-one in Chirumhanzu,” he said. These are no longer the traditional hand pumped boreholes, as the constituency is modernizing, by installing solar powered, tap borehole systems.
In Conclusion…
World Rhino Day commemorations in Sebakwe showcased a rare breed – politicians present who deliver. With initiatives demonstrating that conservation, community development, and leadership can harmonize beautifully. Deep in the Zimbabwean bush, 40 kilometres northeast of Kwekwe, Sebakwe community sparkles as a model of effective governance, inspiring progress and prosperity.
