Runde Rural District Council Mototi ward 16 councillor Emmanuel Mhike will celebrate his birthday on Sunday, August 9, by giving back to the community through a youth-focused outreach programme that combines sport, anti-drug awareness and community engagement at Gwenombe Dip Primary School grounds.
The event will feature the donation of soccer kits to local teams, netball matches, anti-drug abuse poems and speeches, as well as a cake-cutting and sharing ceremony.
Mhike said he had chosen to celebrate his birthday with the community because he believes leadership should be centred on service and uplifting the lives of others.
“A birthday is not just a personal milestone, but an opportunity to give back to the people who have entrusted me with the responsibility of serving them,” he said.
“I felt it was important to celebrate with the community, especially our young people, by supporting sport and encouraging positive lifestyles.”
Mhike said investing in sport was one of the most effective ways of keeping young people away from drugs and other social ills.
“Sport instills discipline, teamwork and hope. By donating soccer kits and organising sporting activities, we want to inspire our youths to pursue their talents while staying away from drug and substance abuse,” he said.
“The anti-drug awareness speeches and poems will reinforce this important message.”
He said the event was also meant to strengthen community unity and encourage residents to work together in addressing challenges affecting young people.
“This celebration belongs to the community. I invite everyone to come and celebrate with us as we promote unity, healthy living and a shared commitment to building a better future for our children,” Mhike said.
He said the programme is expected to attract residents from across the ward, with activities designed to entertain while promoting social responsibility, youth empowerment and community development.