Thursday, August 7, 2025
Home Blog Page 12

“I really wanted to win this game” — Chaminuka

Rufaro Stadium witnessed a hard-fought 1-1 draw between arch-rivals Dynamos and CAPS United in a Matchday 12 clash of the 2025 Zimbabwe Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.

 

While the historic Harare Derby lacked some of its usual spark, the match was not without drama—both on and off the pitch.

Dynamos fans staged a boycott, protesting against the club’s ownership and demanding either a sale or significant changes to revive the team’s fortunes.

Despite the subdued atmosphere, the action on the field delivered moments of excitement.

After a cagey first half that ended goalless, Dynamos broke the deadlock in the 54th minute when Emmanuel Jalai coolly converted a penalty.

However, their lead was short-lived as CAPS United’s Kundai Benyu stunned the crowd with a spectacular long-range strike that flew into the net, ensuring the points were shared.

Dynamos’ new head coach Saul Chaminuka said he had hoped for a derby win to revive the club, which is languishing near the relegation zone.

“I so much wanted to win this game so that we start with a good three points,” he said.

“But nevertheless, I think this game is going to give the boys a lot of confidence, and going forward, I’m sure whatever we will be sharing should see us developing into a team, and we will get good results.”

The result leaves both sides with plenty to ponder as the league season continues, but for now, bragging rights remain unsettled in Zimbabwe’s most storied football rivalry.

Watch Saul Chaminuka speaking after the game

@zimbuzz

What Dynamos new head coach Saul Chaminuka said after the one all draw against CAPS United ⤵️

♬ original sound – Zimbuzz

Lyshanda Moyas Crowned Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025

Gweru-born Lyshanda Moyas has been named the new Miss Universe Zimbabwe in a dazzling ceremony held at Harare’s prestigious Hippodrome on Saturday night.

 

The 26-year-old healthcare professional captivated the judges and audience alike, securing her place as the country’s next representative on the global stage.

Moyas, a dedicated nurse, will now prepare to compete at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok, Thailand, on November 21, 2025.

She takes over the crown from her predecessor, Sakhile Dube, and will carry Zimbabwe’s flag with pride as she vies for the international title.

Along with the prestigious honour, Moyas was awarded a brand-new Mercedes-Benz and a cash prize.

The star-studded event also saw Onesimo Nkomo and Rumbidzai Muzopa shine as first and second runners-up, respectively.

With her grace and intelligence, Moyas is set to make a powerful impression as she steps onto the world stage.

Nasty C Wows Harare with First Live Performance of New Single “Psychic”

South African Hip-Hop star Nasty C is back with a banger! Blending rap, rock, and alternative sounds, “Psychic” captures a bold new chapter for “The Coolest Kid In Africa”.

 

The self-produced track is a confident, flex-heavy anthem that sees him embracing change, brushing off distractions, and delivering sharp lyricism with an elevated tone.

It’s a fearless record from an artist in transition, moving with purpose and clarity.

Zimbabwean fans got their first taste of “Psychic” during a free show in Harare on Saturday May 10, dubbed the “Road to Ivyson Tour” – a teaser ahead of the main tour.

Even though Nasty C had only dropped the song the day before, the Harare crowd already knew every word.

The event featured an electric lineup of some of Zimbabwe’s finest, including Holy 10, Bagga, KikkyBadass, King 98, Probeatz, and Kayflow. South Africa’s MashBeatz also flew in for the show.

“Psychic” is dropping while Nasty C is rolling out the 7th edition of his Ivyson Tour, which is happening with a twist this time — instead of just announcing tour dates, Nasty C is letting his fans across Africa request him and the Ivyson Tour to their city via TOORLY, a fan-driven global touring platform that’s launching in Africa.

The more requests a city gets, the higher its chances of landing a tour stop – and fans across the continent have been going wild rallying their cities to lock in a show

“Izimangaliso” by Yumbs x Zwayetoven Emerges as a Viral Anthem of Hope from Soul Buddies Album

A standout track from the collaborative Soul Buddies album by renowned producers Yumbs and Zwayetoven, Izimangaliso, featuring Kailey Botman and Khanyisa, is capturing the hearts of listeners across the country.

 

With its powerful message of miracles and hope beyond current hardships, the song has struck a chord on social media and streaming platforms alike, amassing over 230,000 streams to date.

Izimangaliso, meaning “miracles” in isiZulu, speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the faith in brighter days ahead; themes that continue to resonate deeply with fans.

Its soulful, emotive delivery paired with rich, layered Amapiano production has positioned it as a modern-day anthem of upliftment.

The track is taken from Soul Buddies, the joint project released last year by multi-platinum producer Yumbs and rising Amapiano star Zwayetoven.

The 21-track album made an immediate impact upon release, garnering widespread praise for its musicality and collaborative depth. To date, the album has surpassed 1.6 million streams, showcasing the duo’s ability to curate a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-looking.

Soul Buddies featured an impressive lineup of South Africa’s top-tier talent, including MaWhoo, Mthunzi, Ami Faku, Nasty C, and Shekhinah.

One of the project’s most memorable moments was With You — a groundbreaking collaboration between Nasty C and Shekhinah, marking their first foray into the Amapiano genre.

The song made its debut at an exclusive media listening session, earning a standing ovation and widespread acclaim.

Rooted in the refined textures of “Private School” Amapiano, Soul Buddies is more than a musical release; it continues to be a celebration of friendship, artistry, and South African sonic heritage.

The album’s title paid homage to the beloved youth TV series Soul Buddyz, while reflecting the duo’s creative journey that began at the National School of the Arts.

Currently on his second official Clubhouse series, Yumbs has brought his vision to life through the Yamborghini Club—a curated experience hosted every last Sunday at La Familia Street Culture in Sandton.

The latest installment in April drew a sold-out crowd, all gathered to immerse themselves in Yumbs’ unique take on private school Amapiano.

From Photo Finishes to Festival Vibes: Castle Tankard Delivers Another Classic

The Castle Tankard 2025 once again solidified its reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s premier entertainment spectacles, drawing thousands to the Borrowdale Park Racecourse for a day of high-stakes horse racing and electrifying performances.

 

The event, a highlight on the country’s social calendar, seamlessly blended elite sport with world-class entertainment, leaving fans captivated from the first race to the final encore.

The spotlight shone brightest on the 2000-metre Castle Tankard race, where Action Zone emerged victorious in a heart-stopping finish, claiming the $25,000 winner’s purse.

The race, featuring 15 competitors, came down to a dramatic final 30 metres as Action Zone held off fierce challenges from Jaeger Moon (second place, $12,500) and Master Tik Tok (third place, $7,500).

The trio’s neck-and-neck sprint to the line left the crowd roaring—a fitting climax to Zimbabwe’s most prestigious horse racing event.

ACTION ZONE

As the cheers from the races faded, the energy shifted to the after-party, where the Chillspot Records roster turned the venue into a pulsating dance arena.

Despite the afternoon sun still blazing, the grounds were packed to capacity, with revellers jostling for space as the beats took over.

The lineup was a masterful mix of rising stars and established icons: Nisha Ts, Oriyano, and Delroy Shewe made their Castle Tankard debut, delivering high-energy sets to one of the largest crowds ever assembled at the racecourse.

For Alick Macheso and Enzo Ishall, the stage was familiar territory. They brought their signature flair, with Macheso’s sungura rhythms and Ishall’s dancehall anthems keeping the audience on their feet well into the evening.

Beyond the races and performances, the event’s success lies in its ability to merge elite sport, top-tier music, and unmatched atmosphere.

It’s not just a horse race—it’s a cultural experience, a place where high fashion, corporate networking, and street-party vibes collide under the Harare sky.

With another unforgettable edition in the books, the Castle Tankard has once again raised the bar for entertainment in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe Sables Extend Unbeaten Run with Dominant 80-12 Victory Over Botswana

The Zimbabwe Sables extended their unbeaten streak in 2025 with a commanding 80-12 win over Botswana at Harare Sports Club on Saturday.

 

The Sables, ranked significantly higher than their neighbours, displayed their strength from the outset, overwhelming Botswana with relentless attacking pressure.

The first half saw a flurry of tries, with co-captain Dion Khumalo and French-based international Shingirai Katsvere each crossing the line twice before the break.

Botswana managed to respond with an unconverted try but struggled to contain the Sables’ offensive power.

Botswana’s second-half efforts included a brilliantly executed try, but that marked the end of their scoring as the hosts continued to pile on the points, bolstered by fresh legs off the bench.

Reflecting on the match, Botswana captain Brandon van Zyl acknowledged the challenge his side faced:

“We always knew that Zimbabwe would be a tough outfit, but our goal was to put them under pressure and get some points on the board, which we did.

Our preparations were good, and I’m proud of the effort today. We’ll review the footage and identify areas for improvement.”

Dion Khumalo, who captained the Sables at just 22, shared his thoughts on the performance:

“It was a solid game. The boys put in a tremendous shift, and we’ll take the positives while working on the negatives.

Being skipper today was a privilege, and I want to credit the senior players, the technical team, and our incredible fans.”

The Sables now shift their focus to their next fixture, a highly anticipated return leg against Zambia in Lusaka at the end of the month.

Harare Sports Club provided a spirited atmosphere, with fans in full voice as they cheered the Sables to another emphatic victory.

Schweppes Holdings Appoints Stanley Muchenje as New Managing Director

Schweppes Holdings Africa Limited has announced the appointment of Stanley M. Muchenje as the new Managing Director, effective May 1, 2025.

 

This strategic move is expected to bring a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives to the company, particularly in the areas of sales and marketing, where Muchenje has built a robust career over the past two decades.

Muchenje, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Studies and an MPhil in Marketing, previously served in various leadership roles within the company, showcasing his expertise and commitment to advancing Schweppes’ objectives.

His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the organisation as it seeks to enhance its market presence and drive innovation within the beverage sector.

His appointment follows the retirement of Mr. Charles K. Nkululeko Msipa, who stepped down at the end of April 2025 after a distinguished 20-year tenure.

Msipa has been instrumental in the growth of Schweppes, having previously led significant initiatives that positioned the company as a leader in the beverage industry across Zimbabwe and beyond.

POSB and Zimnat Forge Strategic Alliance to Broaden Access to Insurance Services

The People’s Own Savings Bank (POSB) has joined forces with Zimnat General Insurance to launch a suite of insurance services, marking a significant step in expanding access to essential financial products across Zimbabwe.

 

Through this newly announced partnership, POSB customers can now access Zimnat’s motor vehicle insurance — both third-party and comprehensive cover — directly through the bank.

The collaboration also enables convenient payments and renewals for ZINARA and ZBC radio licences, streamlining a once-fragmented process into a one-stop banking experience.

Another key offering introduced is the Zimnat Hospital Cash Plan, which provides daily cash payouts to clients during hospitalisation.

Designed to cushion families from the financial strain that comes with medical emergencies, the plan exemplifies the two institutions’ shared commitment to delivering meaningful financial support.

“This partnership with Zimnat General Insurance allows us to provide convenient and accessible insurance solutions, ensuring that our customers can manage their financial needs under one roof,” said Mr. Garainashe Changunda, Chief Executive Officer of POSB.

“We are dedicated to continuously enhancing our service offerings and meeting the ever-evolving needs of our customers.

“As we celebrate our 120th anniversary, we reaffirm our dedication to a customer-centric approach, leveraging partnerships and innovation to rapidly transform customer experiences and continue our legacy of innovation and inclusivity.”

Mrs. Betty Chiware-Togarasei, CEO of Zimnat General Insurance, highlighted the importance of the alliance in extending Zimnat’s reach: “Zimnat is excited to collaborate with POSB, a resilient bank with an extensive network, including in some remote parts of the country, to bring our widely sought-after insurance services to a broader audience.

“This partnership aligns with our mission to empower prosperity and provide innovative and reliable insurance solutions to the people of Zimbabwe. We look forward to a successful and mutually beneficial collaboration that benefits our customers and strengthens our communities.”

The partnership signals a growing trend among financial institutions to integrate banking and insurance services, a move that not only increases convenience for customers but also supports financial inclusion in underserved areas.

More insurance products are reportedly in the pipeline as part of the POSB-Zimnat alliance, promising customers a broader, more accessible suite of services in the near future.

Mukuru Derby Festival Delivers Drama, Flair and Early Season Talking Points

The curtain came down on a thrilling Mukuru Derby Day Festival this past weekend, as rugby enthusiasts flocked to Rolf Valley to witness some of the best schoolboy rugby Zimbabwe has to offer.

 

This year’s edition had a vibrant international flavour, headlined by the debut of St. Andrew’s College from Grahamstown, South Africa. They were joined by St. Alban’s College from Gauteng and the Sharks Academy from KwaZulu-Natal—adding much-needed quality and diversity to the competition.

Thursday and Saturday were the biggest days, with record crowds turning up. But it wasn’t just about the rugby—food stalls offering a variety of cuisines, lively corporate tents, and top-notch security made the event a true family affair.

Credit must go to St. John’s College Sports Director Chris Fourie and the entire St. John’s community for putting together such a well-organised event.

 

St. Andrew’s Light Up the Festival

Of the three touring teams, St. Andrew’s College were undoubtedly the pick of the bunch. They swept aside all their opponents, showcasing structured rugby and polished execution. They opened their campaign with an emphatic 46-3 win over St. George’s College, before seeing off a spirited Peterhouse side 46-24 in their second outing.

Their final match, played against hosts St. John’s College in the main game of the final day, was a thriller. St.

Andrew’s edged the Rams 41-39 in a match that had the crowd on its feet. Their rugby was a masterclass in precision—clinical ball-handling, pin-point passing, and effective use of their forwards to punch holes in defences. Unlike the typical Zimbabwean style of running everything from deep, St. Andrew’s favoured structure and control, and it paid off handsomely.

 

St. Alban’s Hold Their Own

St. Alban’s College kicked off their tour with a tightly contested 24-all draw against a fired-up Lomagundi College.

They followed it up with a 26-14 win over St. John’s College and closed their tour with a hard-fought 17-14 victory over Falcon College. They showed composure in tight moments and proved they can handle Zimbabwe’s top schoolboy sides.

 

Sharks Academy Too Strong for Steelers

The Sharks Academy had a one-sided affair against the Zambezi Steelers, running riot with a 67-10 win. Their speed and power were too much for the Steelers, and the scoreline reflected the gulf in class.

 

Lomagundi Fire Early Warning Shots

Lomagundi College were arguably the best Zimbabwean team at the festival. The Chinhoyi-based side put on some scintillating displays, with a backline oozing pace and flair.

Their link-up play between forwards and backs was smooth, and they were rewarded with wins over Churchill (29-20) and a dominant 39-15 dismantling of a highly rated St. George’s College team.

 

PE and CBC Disappoint

Prince Edward School, one of the traditional powerhouses, were a pale shadow of their former selves. They never really got going, suffering a heavy 35-14 loss to St. George’s and another 23-3 defeat to bitter rivals Churchill.

The Tigers looked disjointed throughout—kickers failed to find touch, the backline lacked direction, and attacking play was flat and uninspired. For a school known for running rugby, their performance was worrying ahead of the regular season.

Christian Brothers College (CBC) also had a rough time, going winless. They were outplayed by Falcon College 29-7 in their opener and later fell to Peterhouse 32-12.

 

Eaglesvale Show Grit

Eaglesvale continued to build on their growing reputation. They started with a 49-21 thrashing of Hillcrest and ended the festival with a gritty 8-7 win over Heritage. Their blend of physicality and flair could see them make serious noise in the co-ed league this season.

 

Looking Ahead

If this festival is anything to go by, Zimbabwean schoolboy rugby is heading into one of its most exciting seasons in recent memory. The inclusion of top South African schools has raised the standard, and it’s clear that teams like Lomagundi and Eaglesvale are setting the tone.

Now the big question,who can maintain this momentum when the real battles begin?

Featured image by Wonder Mashura

Zimbabwe Thrash Zambia 70–15 in First Leg of Battle of the Zambezi

The Sables began their 2025 campaign in dominant fashion with a commanding 70–15 victory over Zambia in the first leg of the Battle of the Zambezi at Harare Sports Club.

 

Despite conceding the first points through a penalty by Zambia’s Alex Mwewa, Zimbabwe wasted no time in asserting their authority.

Debutant Nyasha Shiripinda responded almost immediately, collecting the return kick-off and slicing through to score under the posts.

Linience Tambwera, who had a flawless day with the boot, slotted the conversion to give the hosts an early lead.

French-based prop Bornwell Gwinji then powered over for Zimbabwe’s second try, capping off a series of bruising carries from the forwards. Tambwera added the extras once again.

Captain Hilton Mudariki, marking his 51st Test cap, added a third with a trademark dart from close range, converted clinically by Tambwera.

Although Zambia struck back with a converted try of their own, the Sables remained in full control.

They ran in several more tries before the break, showcasing fluid backline movement and relentless forward pressure. The halftime score stood at 28–10, with Zimbabwe firmly in the driver’s seat.

The second half saw the Sables explode into another gear, scoring an avalanche of tries as fatigue and defensive frailties took their toll on the visitors. Zimbabwe’s depth off the bench maintained the pace, as the scoreline ballooned past 50.

By the final whistle, Zimbabwe had racked up ten tries in total, with Tambwera converting most of them, including several from difficult angles.

Zambia managed one more try in the second half, but it was a mere consolation as the Sables finished the job emphatically at 70–15.

After the match, captain Mudariki praised the team’s effort but acknowledged room for refinement:

“Super happy to have such a great win in front of the home fans. It’s good to see all the work we put in translating to the scoreboard.

“It was a good win but we made a lot of errors on the field and had some discipline issues on the park, but these are things we will easily fix.

“Playing at home is always the best, especially when we also get a win. The home fans played a huge role today.”

With a 55-point margin, Zimbabwe take a massive advantage into the second leg and look well poised to retain their dominance in this regional rivalry.

Half-time: Zimbabwe 28–10 Zambia

Full-time: Zimbabwe 70–15 Zambia