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MWOS FC Edges Highlanders in First-Ever Top-Flight Match

Salif Cheya scored the decisive goal as MWOS FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Highlanders in a tightly contested Castle Lager Premier Soccer League clash at Baobab Stadium.

 

MWOS FC, playing as the home team at the Mhondoro Ngezi venue due to ongoing renovations at Ngoni Stadium, showed their dominance in the first half but struggled to break down Highlanders’ stubborn defense.

The opening opportunity came when Innocent Zambezi connected with a cross from Tafadzwa George, but his powerful header sailed just wide of the mark.

Moments later, George nearly turned scorer himself, narrowly missing the target with a header from Nigel Matinha’s precise delivery.

Highlanders had a lucky escape midway through the first half when MWOS goalkeeper Martin Mapisa misjudged a clearance, leaving the goal unguarded.

However, Prince Ndlovu failed to capitalise on the error, sparing Mapisa’s blushes.

Despite MWOS controlling much of the first-half action, they lacked the finishing touch, and the teams went into halftime deadlocked at 0-0.

The second half saw MWOS elevate their performance, and their efforts paid off in the 61st minute.

Cheya pounced on a defensive mix-up between Highlanders goalkeeper Raphael Pitisi and his backline, calmly slotting the ball into the net from close range.

The goal proved to be the difference, as MWOS held firm to claim all three points in a hard-fought encounter.

Meanwhile at Rufaro Stadium in Harare, Dynamos and ZPC Kariba played to a goalless draw.

Complete Matchday 1 Results:

Scottland 1 – 0 Triangle

Green Fuel 1-1 Caps United

Simba Bhora 0 – 0 FC Platinum

Herentals College 2-1 TelOne FC

Manica Diamonds 1-0 Yadah FC

Chicken Inn 0-0 Bikita Minerals

Kwekwe United 1-1 Ngezi Platinum

MWOS 1 – 0 Highlanders

Dynamos 0 – 0 ZPC Kariba

Young Guns Shine Bright at the National Arts Merit Awards!

 

The rising stars of Chillmaster, Voltz JT, Master H, and Moojaya capped off a spectacular year by winning National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) in several categories.

 

Master H was honoured with the award for Outstanding Male Musician, while Chillmaster received the accolade for Outstanding Breakthrough Musician.

Voltz JT’s album, N.O.P Makoni, was recognised as the Outstanding Album, and Moojaya took home the award for Outstanding Social Media Skits.

Below is the complete list of winners from the 23rd NAMA ceremony held at the Harare Hippodrome on Saturday evening.

1. Dance Awards

  • Outstanding Female Dancer: Celine Madziva (Respect My Team)
  • Outstanding Male Dancer: Tichaona “Hero’’ Chikara (Into the Light)
  • Outstanding Dance Group/Production: Khaya Arts Productions (UniAfrica)
  • Outstanding Choreographer: Future Dube (Khaya Arts Productions)

2. Visual Arts Awards

  • Outstanding Male Visual Artist: Moffat Takadiwa
  • Outstanding Female Visual Artist: Portia Zvavahera
  • Outstanding Upcoming Visual Artist: Kundai Nathan
  • Outstanding Exhibition6th Venice Biennale (Curated by Fadzai Veronica Muchemwa)

3. Spoken Word Awards

  • Outstanding Poet: Kudakwashe Rice
  • Outstanding Social Media Skits: Panashe Gurende aka Moojaya
  • Outstanding Stand-Up Comedian: Mukudzei Majoni aka King Kandoro

4. Theatre Awards

  • Outstanding Actress: Caroline Mashingaidze Zimbizi (Tete Sabina in Family Riots)
  • Outstanding Actor: Michael Kudakwashe (Sidney in Family Riots)
  • Outstanding Theatrical ProductionThe Aftermath (Patsimeredu Trust)
  • Outstanding Director: Everson Ndlovu (Haywire)
  • Outstanding Playwright: Leonard Matsa (Promise)

5. Literary Arts Awards

  • Outstanding First Published WorkZagamo the War Within – Ray Mawerera (Royalty Books)
  • Outstanding Children’s BookChimbira Nedzimwe Ngano – Primrose Dzenga (Torch Bearers Trust Books)
  • Outstanding Fiction BookWeeping Tomato – Samantha Rumbidzai Vazhure (Carnelian Hearts Limited)
  • Outstanding Non-Fiction BookEntrepreneurial Success: Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy – Divine Simbi-Ndhukula, PhD

6. Film & Television Awards

  • Outstanding Actress: Munashe Goromonzi (Tsitsi in The November Promise)
  • Outstanding Actor: Skanyiso Ngwenya (Rise in Rise)
  • Outstanding Music VideoNhemamusasa – Bagga (Directed by Leopold Tapiwa Vengesa aka Leoy V)
  • Outstanding Screen Production (Television)The DNA Show – Tinashe Mugabe
  • Outstanding Screen Production (Short Film)Dollar – Tawanda Vombo
  • Outstanding Screen Production (Full-Length Film)Nhoroondo – Vusa Hlatshwayo

7. Music Awards

  • Outstanding Female Musician: Thamsanqa Moyo aka Tamy Moyo
  • Outstanding Male Musician: Hillary Marufu aka Master H
  • Outstanding Breakthrough Musician: Gift Kudakwashe Hombarume aka Chillmaster
  • Outstanding Music GroupThe Unveiled
  • Outstanding SongKana Ndanyura – Kelvin Kusikwenyu aka Killer T
  • Outstanding AlbumNOP Makoni – Nkosilathi Sibiya aka Voltz JT

8. Special Awards

  • Promoter of the YearEvent Hulks
  • Outstanding Artist in the Diaspora: Masimba Hwati (Visual Artist, Poland)
  • Arts Service AwardPrince Edward School
  • Arts Personality Award: Partson Chimbodza (Chipas Promotions)
  • Lifetime Achievement Award: Philip Svosve
  • People’s Choice Award: Wallace Chirumiko aka Winky D

Own Goal Decides Tense Opener as Scottland Edge Past Resilient Triangle

Scottland FC, the expensively assembled newcomers to the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, narrowly clinched a 1-0 victory over returning side Triangle United in a tense season opener at Rufaro Stadium.

 

The decisive moment came in the 90th minute in the form of an unfortunate own goal, breaking what had seemed destined to be a hard-fought goalless draw.

Triangle United, under the guidance of coach Luke Masomere, put up a spirited and resilient performance, frustrating Scotland’s efforts for much of the match.

However, a costly miscommunication between Triangle goalkeeper Hamilton Makainganwa and defender Blessing Chiota proved to be their undoing.

Chiota attempted to chest the ball back to his goalkeeper, who had already rushed off his line to collect what appeared to be a routine save.

The ball slipped past Makainganwa and into the net, handing Scotland all three points in their top-flight debut.

Despite the heartbreaking loss, Triangle United showcased their determination and attacking intent throughout the game.

They created several promising chances and tested Scottland’s defense, particularly in the first half, where they registered two shots on target compared to Scotland’s none.

However, their inability to convert these opportunities, coupled with the late defensive error, ultimately sealed their fate.

The match was played on a challenging pitch, which had been left rugged and waterlogged by overnight rains.

With Herentals and Dynamos scheduled to use the same venue over the weekend, concerns are growing about the condition of the turf, which could deteriorate further and become unplayable.

Scottland head coach Tonderayi Ndiraya will be a relieved man to have secured a winning start to their campaign, albeit in fortuitous circumstances, while Triangle United can take pride in their resilient display despite the disappointing result.

Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup Returns to Troutbeck on March 8

The Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup is set to make a splash on March 8, 2025, at the scenic Troutbeck Resort in Nyanga.

 

This premier sporting event will bring together elite athletes from across Africa and beyond, competing in a challenging multi-sport race amidst one of the continent’s most stunning landscapes.

Sponsored by Bonaqua, the event underscores the brand’s commitment to supporting athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.

Known for its pure and refreshing water, Bonaqua will provide essential hydration to participants as they tackle the triathlon’s swimming, cycling, and running segments.

The event also enjoys the support of long-time co-sponsors, including Troutbeck Resort, CFAO, IGO, Ecocash, Simbisa Brands, MCM Legal, and Rooney’s.

Barry Otieno, Coca-Cola’s Senior Marketing Manager for Zimbabwe and Malawi, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are thrilled to partner again with Bonaqua as the official hydration partner for the Africa Triathlon Cup. Our dedication to quality hydration aligns perfectly with the spirit of the triathlon, where endurance and performance are essential.”

The Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of fitness, community, and the natural beauty of Zimbabwe.

Athletes of all skill levels are invited to participate, with early registration encouraged to secure a spot in what promises to be an exhilarating day of sport.

“We invite all athletes, families, and sports enthusiasts to join us for a day filled with competition, camaraderie, and celebration of athleticism,” added Otieno.

For more details on registration, event schedules, and sponsorship opportunities, visit the official Triathlon website.

Willard Zireva Returns as OK Zimbabwe CEO Amid Retail Chain’s Struggles

OK Zimbabwe, one of the country’s oldest retail chains with over 75 years in business, has announced a major leadership shake-up as it battles a severe operational crisis.

 

The board has reappointed Willard Zireva as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), a seasoned retail executive who previously led the company from 2001 to 2017.

The leadership changes come as OK Zimbabwe has been struggling over the past six months, with widespread stock shortages leaving many of its stores with empty shelves.

Rivals such as Pick n Pay and Spar have managed to keep their stores well-stocked despite Zimbabwe’s ongoing economic hardships, raising concerns about OK’s management strategies.

The crisis forced the closure of several branches, including OK Chitungwiza Town Complex and OK Kuwadzana, which reportedly had no stock left to operate.

The board’s decision to remove the outgoing executive team, led by CEO Maxen Phillip Karombo, was a necessary move to stabilize the company.

Karombo, along with Chief Financial Officer Phillimon Mushosho and Supply Chain Director Knox Mupaya, reached voluntary separation agreements, making way for Zireva’s return.

A Company in Need of a Turnaround

Under Zireva’s previous tenure, OK Zimbabwe experienced significant growth and expansion, including listing on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange.

However, he now faces a daunting task of reviving a company that has lost its competitive edge.

The retailer has come under fire for questionable business decisions, including the acquisition of Food Lovers Market, which directly competes with its Bon Marché franchise that caters to higher-income consumers.

Additionally, its venture into the pharmacy business was seen as a misstep, diverting focus from its core grocery retail operations.

To assist with the restructuring, the board has also appointed Alex Edgar Siyavora as Chief Financial Officer and Muzvidzwa Richard Chingaira as Supply Chain Director.

This team has been tasked with stabilizing operations over the next six months while the company seeks long-term executive replacements.

What’s Next for OK Zimbabwe?

Zireva’s return signals a strategic effort to restore confidence in the brand and bring back operational efficiency.

The immediate priority will be restocking shelves, improving supply chain management, and regaining customer trust.

Whether the veteran executive can turn the tide remains to be seen, but with OK Zimbabwe now a shadow of its former self, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Zimbabwe Clinch Rain-Affected T20 Series Against Ireland

Zimbabwe secured a 1-0 victory in the T20 series against Ireland, a series heavily impacted by rain, with only one of the three scheduled matches reaching completion.

 

The decisive encounter saw Zimbabwe triumph by 3 wickets, largely due to a pivotal innings from Tony Munyonga.

The final match, a day-night fixture, commenced an hour later than planned due to a wet outfield, necessitating extensive efforts by the ground staff to render the field playable.

Consequently, the match was reduced to 18 overs per side. Ireland’s captain, Paul Stirling, opted to bowl first, aiming to capitalise on the damp conditions and sluggish outfield.

Zimbabwe faced early challenges, finding themselves at 62 for 3, with Tadiwanashe Marumani and Wessly Madhevere dismissed cheaply—Madhevere for a duck and Marumani for 7 runs. Captain Sikandar Raza provided stability with a brisk 34 runs off 17 balls.

Tony Munyonga, continuing his rich vein of form, contributed 26 runs, as did Tashinga Musekiwa, enabling the Chevrons to set a target of 142 runs. Ireland’s bowlers, Matthew Humphreys and Gareth Delany, each claimed two wickets.

Unfortunately, before Ireland could commence their chase, rain intervened once more, leading the umpires to call off the match. As a result, Zimbabwe clinched the series 1-0.

Delta Corporation Funds Cancer Education & Screening for Masvingo Province Prisons

Delta Corporation, in partnership with the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe (CAZ), has provided USD 10,000 to support breast, cervical, and prostate cancer education and screening for inmates across Masvingo Province prisons.

 

The initiative aims to address healthcare disparities and improve early detection of cancer among incarcerated individuals, who often face barriers to accessing timely medical services.

Cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with delayed diagnosis often resulting in poor health outcomes.

For incarcerated individuals, accessing equitable healthcare services, including cancer screening, presents unique challenges.

To bridge this gap, Delta Corporation has partnered with the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe (CAZ) to fund a cancer education and screening program across nine prisons in Masvingo Province.

The initiative, which began with educational sessions on breast, cervical, and prostate cancer, aimed to empower participants with knowledge on prevention and early detection.

Inmates going through educational sessions on cancer

These sessions included practical skills, such as how to conduct self-breast examinations and identify warning signs. A total of 282 inmates—both men and women—were screened during the campaign.

Patricia Murambinda, General Manager of Corporate Affairs at Delta Corporation, emphasized the importance of the project.

“This initiative has enabled us to take a step towards empowering communities to fight against cancer, which is a major public health concern,” she said.

“The provision of education and screening will assist in cancer prevention and improve the quality of life for cancer patients, their families, and communities through timely, sustainable, and evidence-based interventions.”

The program targeted prisons and satellite facilities in Masvingo Remand, Mutimurefu, Gutu, Bikita, Zaka, Chiredzi, Chikombedzi, Mwenezi, and Chivi.

By focusing on underserved populations, the initiative seeks to reduce cancer-related morbidity and mortality through early detection and education.

Yumbs & Zwayetoven Drop New Single ‘With You’ Feat. Shekhinah & Nasty C

Following the remarkable success of their debut album Soul Buddies, which has amassed an impressive 895,000 streams since its December release, producer/DJ duo Yumbs and Zwayetoven have announced “With You” as the album’s next single.

 

Timed perfectly for the season of love, “With You” is a soulful and romantic “Private School” Amapiano track that brings together South African music royalty, Shekhinah and Nasty C.

Check it out below:

Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe provides scholarships for AU students

Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe is this year providing scholarships for seven students at Africa University, who were Last week presented by the bank with laptops and laptop bags to assist them with their studies.

 

The scholarships, which cover tuition fees and related expenses such as accommodation, meals, learning materials and other living expenses, cover the students for the full duration of their studies, which is four years.

One of the beneficiaries earned a place on the university’s Dean’s List for Academic Excellence in their first semester.

The bank’s public sector head, Sarah Charangwa, presented the students with their laptops and laptop bags, which she said should enable them to participate fully in online and blended education.

The students are the second group of students to receive scholarships from Stanbic Bank. The first group consisted of five students, who graduated last year with Bachelor’s degrees.

The scholarship programme was launched in 2020 as a comprehensive four-year scholarship programme, supporting the students for the full duration of their degree.

The bank has had an enduring relationship with Africa University, reflecting its commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable community development.

According to Ms Charangwa, Stanbic bank actively engages with the students in order to understand their needs and provide them with personalised support on their academic journeys.

“Beneficiaries study in Africa University’s multi-cultural environment, broadening their perspectives and nurturing leadership skills, which we as a bank consider important,” she said.

“By providing comprehensive financial and academic support, Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe believes it is helping build a strong foundation for economic growth and nurturing the next generation of leaders.

“The provision of laptops and accessories is intended to further assist these students, who in today’s world need to make use of modern technology to advance their knowledge and be equipped for online learning and internet research,” she added.

Stanbic Bank places great emphasis on corporate social investment, focusing on several impact areas that include Health and Sanitation, Education, the Environment and Sports.

Africa University’s Director of Advancement and Public Affairs, Jeanette Dadzie, praised Stanbic Bank for what she termed its visionary approach to corporate social responsibility.

“Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe’s scholarship programme is a shining example of how strategic corporate social investment can transform lives and communities,” she said.

“By providing comprehensive support – covering tuition, accommodation, meals and even essential tools like laptops – the bank is not just investing in education but also empowering the next generation of leaders.

“The fact that one of the beneficiaries has already earned a place on the Dean’s List for Academic Excellence speaks volumes about the programme’s impact,” she added.

“This initiative goes beyond financial aid. It fosters a holistic environment where students can thrive academically, develop leadership skills and gain exposure to a multicultural setting at Africa University.

“In a world increasingly driven by technology, the provision of laptops ensures these students are equipped to navigate modern educational demands and contribute meaningfully to the digital economy.

“Stanbic Bank’s enduring partnership with Africa University highlights its commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development.

“Programmes like this are not just about creating opportunities. They are about building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

“We applaud Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe’s visionary approach to corporate social responsibility and for being a catalyst for change in the lives of these talented students,” she said.

Munyonga steers Zimbabwe to thrilling last-over win

Tony Munyonga played a heroic innings of 43 not out to guide Zimbabwe to a thrilling three-wicket victory over Ireland, with four balls to spare, in the second T20 International at Harare Sports Club on Sunday.

Chasing a target of 141, the hosts looked all but beaten when Sikandar Raza was dismissed at 64 for five.

However, Munyonga rallied the tail and sealed the win with a boundary in the final over.

Earlier, Zimbabwe won the toss and opted to field.

Ireland suffered an early setback when captain Paul Stirling edged a catch to wicketkeeper Tadiwanashe Marumani off Richard Ngarava’s bowling in the first over.

Lorcan Tucker, dropped early by Raza, played a key role in stabilising the innings.

He shared a 53-run stand with Harry Tector (28) in less than seven overs and then added 40 with Curtis Campher (26).

Tucker eventually fell for 48 off 40 balls, caught off a pull shot at deep fine leg in the 14th over, leaving Ireland at 99 for three.

From there, Zimbabwe’s bowlers tightened their grip with disciplined, accurate bowling.

Trevor Gwandu struck three times in quick succession, starting with Tucker’s dismissal, while none of the lower-order batters managed to reach double figures.

Ryan Burl took a catch that saw him set a new Zimbabwe record of 45 catches in T20 internationals, surpassing Raza’s 44.

Ireland stumbled to 137 for eight in their 20 overs, with Gwandu finishing with three for 24, while Ngarava and Raza chipped in with two wickets each.

Zimbabwe’s chase got off to a disastrous start despite Brian Bennett driving the first ball to fine leg for four.

Marumani and Wessly Madhevere fell cheaply in the second over, both dismissed by Craig Young.

Bennett followed soon after, slicing a catch to deep backward point for eight, leaving Zimbabwe reeling at 14 for three.

Burl and Raza attempted to rebuild, adding 48 runs in quick time.

Burl struck two fours off Campher, while Raza did the same against Josh Little.

Just as they seemed to be shifting momentum, Tector deceived Burl (27 off 20 balls) with a flighted delivery, edging to the keeper.

Zimbabwe’s hopes took another blow in the next over when Raza, attempting a drive off Ben White, was caught at long-off for 22 off 27 balls.

At 64 for five in the 11th over, victory seemed a distant dream.

However, Munyonga and Tashinga Musekiwa fought back, adding 33 runs for the sixth wicket in less than four overs before Young dismissed Musekiwa for 15 off 11 balls.

After 15 overs, Zimbabwe needed 37 off the final five overs.

Wellington Masakadza’s dismissal for six left 26 runs required off the last three overs.

Munyonga then took charge, smashing 10 runs in an over to bring the target within reach.

Ngarava joined the action, striking Young for two fours.

Three scrambled singles followed, leaving Zimbabwe needing just two runs from the final over, bowled by Graham Hume.

Ngarava levelled the scores with a single off the first ball, before Munyonga emphatically drove the next delivery through the covers for four, sealing a memorable victory with four balls to spare.

Ireland – 137-8 in 20 overs (Lorcan Tucker 46, Harry Tector 28, Curtis Camphor 26; Trevor Gwandu 3/24, Sikandar Raza 2/22, Richard Ngarava 2/38)

Zimbabwe – 141-7 in 19.2 overs (Tony Munyonga 43*, Ryan Burl 27, Sikandar Raza 22; Craig Young 4/24, Harry Tector 1/5, Ben White 1/21)

Zimbabwe won by three wickets