The Upper Manyame Sub-Catchment Council recently participated in a Wellness Day hosted by Harare Polytechnic, an initiative aimed at promoting health, fitness and overall well-being among employees from various organizations. The program brought together staff members from different institutions to engage in activities that encouraged physical activity, teamwork and awareness on health and wellness issues.
The day began with an energetic Zumba session, which immediately set a positive and lively tone. Staff from the Council joined the session enthusiastically, following the fitness instructors’ moves and enjoying the music and rhythmic exercise. The Zumba session was not only a fun way to get moving, but it also highlighted the importance of incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines to maintain both physical and mental health.
Following the warmup, participants took part in tug of war competitions, which fostered teamwork and friendly competition among the various groups. The activity encouraged participants to collaborate and support each other, strengthening bonds among colleagues while promoting physical exercise. In addition to tug of war, the program included traditional ball games, which brought an element of cultural enjoyment and recreation. These games allowed participants to engage in light-hearted competition, celebrate Zimbabwean traditions and promote team spirit among colleagues from different organizations.
Several key organizations were present to provide professional guidance and wellness services. These included PSMAS, the National AIDS Council (NAC), ZB bank and the Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC). These partners offered essential services such as health screenings, HIV testing and counselling and wellness education, ensuring that participants could access important information and support on maintaining their health. The presence of the ZGC also provided an opportunity for staff to learn about gender equality in the workplace and the importance of creating inclusive, supportive work environments.
Beyond the physical activities, the Wellness Day emphasized mental and emotional well-being. Facilitators encouraged participants to reflect on ways to maintain a healthy work-life balance, manage stress and prioritize selfcare. This component of the program highlighted that wellness extends beyond physical fitness, recognizing the critical connection between emotional health and overall productivity.
The Wellness Day concluded on a high note, leaving participants refreshed, motivated and more aware of the importance of health and wellness in both personal and professional life. By bringing together multiple organizations under one roof, the event successfully fostered a sense of community, cooperation, and mutual support among staff members.
Through its participation, the Upper Manyame Sub-Catchment Council demonstrated its commitment to supporting employee wellness, fostering gender equality and promoting a healthy and motivated workforce. The council reaffirmed the importance of regular wellness initiatives in building a productive, engaged and resilient team capable of performing effectively in their roles while maintaining personal well-being.
The event at Harare Polytechnic served as a model for how collaborative wellness programs can positively impact staff members and partner institutions. By combining physical activities, health services, and awareness on key workplace issues such as gender and mental health, the program successfully highlighted the holistic nature of wellness.
Staff members returned to their workplaces with renewed energy, stronger relationships with colleagues, and a heightened understanding of the value of maintaining both physical and mental health. The Wellness Day offered a comprehensive approach to employee health, providing participants with an enjoyable and informative experience. The Upper Manyame Sub-Catchment Council remains committed to supporting initiatives that enhance staff well-being, and participation in events like this underscores the council’s ongoing dedication to creating a healthy, productive and inclusive working environment.