Youth colour run advocates for integrity in Lupane
Thembelihle Mhlanga
The push to ensure youth participation in decision-making processes has been recognized as crucial for the country’s development by stakeholders. Over time, various stakeholders have innovated ways to engage young people, one of which is through activities like colour runs.
Recently, Lupane Youth Hub, in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation and the Ministry of Youth, hosted a vibrant Colour Run at Somhlolo Stadium in Lupane.
The event, supported by the Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development under the Strengthening Institutions and Youth Agency in Zimbabwe’s Accountability Narrative, aimed to inspire young people to advocate for accountability and transparency from local authorities and public offices.
As the sun rose on the day of the event, dozens of enthusiastic young participants adorned in white shirts gathered, ready to turn the day into a colorful celebration of integrity. The Colour Run not only provided a platform for physical activity but also served as a rallying point for youth to voice their commitment to eradicating corruption at all levels.
Denis Ncube, the Chairperson of the organizing committee, emphasized the significance of the event.
“This Colour Run is more than just a fun activity; it represents our collective stand against corruption. We are here to demand accountability from those in power. Our future depends on it.”
The event was marked by a spirit of camaraderie and determination as participants ran through a course filled with vibrant colors, symbolizing hope and unity.
The atmosphere was electric, with cheers and laughter filling the air. The goal was clear: to cultivate a proactive culture among young people, encouraging them to engage with their local authorities and demand better service delivery.The adverse effects of corruption on the youth were a central theme throughout the day.
Many young people in Zimbabwe face high unemployment rates, a direct result of systemic corruption that hinders economic progress. The Colour Run was designed not only to raise awareness but also to empower the youth to take action.
The Vice Chair, Thembelihle Tshaba, shared her thoughts on the importance of youth agency: “We are the leaders of tomorrow, and we must take a stand today. If we don’t hold our leaders accountable, who will? This event is a call to action for all young people to be vigilant and proactive in promoting integrity.”
Facilitator Patience Ngwenya expressed her pride in the event’s success, sharing that, “Seeing so many young people come together for a common cause is inspiring. This Colour Run is a testament to the power of youth in advocating for change. We are showing that we will not accept corruption as the status quo.”
The organizing team, Nozipho Khumalo and Happiness Nyoni, played a crucial role in bringing the event to life. Nozipho highlighted the need for continuous engagement.
“This is just the beginning. We must keep the momentum going and ensure that our voices are heard consistently. We want to create a movement, not just a moment.”
As the day concluded, the message was clear: young people in Lupane are ready to stand up against corruption and demand accountability from their leaders. The Colour Run was not just a celebration; it was a movement towards a brighter, more transparent future.
The Lupane Youth Hub and its partners are committed to fostering a culture of integrity among the youth, believing that empowered young people can drive the change needed to combat corruption. As they left Somhlolo Stadium, participants carried with them not only colors but a renewed sense of purpose and determination to advocate for their rights and the integrity of their communities.
