Sri Lankans, Kenyans and Ugandans join Zimbabwe community day in the UAE

A social and sports day, organized by the Zimbabwe Community in the UAE, took place in Dubai at the weekend, drawing teams from Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda and other nations. Over 400 individuals attended the event held in Al Quoz district, where numerous teams engaged in football, netball, basketball and other games. The celebration extended beyond the athletic activities, with live music, arts and crafts, traditional cuisine, and various other attractions keeping the audience engaged.

A vibrant market showcased small enterprises and community organizations, while Zimbabwe's ambassador to the UAE, Isaac Moyo, emphasized the significance of such gatherings. Moyo stated that these events serve as powerful platforms for connection, unity, wellness, inspiration, and cultural and national pride. He told The National at the event, "Today is a celebration of our unity and shared identity, not just as proud Zimbabweans, but as a strong and united diaspora family, thriving here in the UAE."

The Zimbabwe Community in the UAE, in collaboration with the Zimbabwean Business Council UAE, organized the initiative to foster support among residents and strengthen ties with other groups throughout the country. Marshall Mupandawana, one of the organizers, expressed gratitude for the support received from the Zimbabwean Community in the UAE and their invited friends from Sri Lanka, Uganda, Kenya and other countries. Mupandawana added, "We hope to host a bigger event in winter."

Simba Makahamadze, chairman of the Zimbabwean Business Council UAE, highlighted the diaspora community as "one of the nation's greatest assets." He stated, "By investing in platforms that bring our people together, we strengthen the social fabric that underpins every business relationship we build."