WHEN Zimbabwean Elite Promotions Group opened its offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, its purpose was limited to promoting sports and cultural events between Zimbabwean schools and Emirati schools.
The brainchild of Gallie Kawanzaruwa, fondly known as Dr Gallie, the aim was very simple.
In a global world, learners should be introduced to the new idea of cultural efficiency through international sports exchanges with diverse cultures early in their school careers.
But the idea caught fire and attracted the attention of sports ministries in the Sadc areas.
As an aside, Dr Gallie was surprised when she was greeted with these words "mauya kumusha" (welcome home).
Many Zambian officials had been educated in Zimbabwe and had high praises for the late president Robert Mugabe and his educational thrust.
Elite Group promotes sports events, golf, track and tennis events between Sadc groups and the Emirates.
Schools in the Emirates have registered with Elite Group for competitive events with Zimbabwean schools.
Dr Gallie, however, told this publication that while Emirati learners are keen to compete with Sadc sports teams, they have a hidden agenda to combine their engagements with a side trip to the famous Zimbabwean game reserves.