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Pro Elite Impress at Squad of Excellency Rugby Festival

Brian Matamba
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Pro Elite Impress at Squad of Excellency Rugby Festival

Pro Elite Rugby Academy’s stock continues to rise after another impressive showing on Friday at Old Georgians Sports Club, where the Squad of Excellency hosted a rugby festival for Under-9 and Under-11 age groups.

 

The festival featured teams from St Michael’s, Shaun De Sousa Academy, Squad of Excellency Academy, Direct Contact, NPS, and Pro Elite.

In the Under-9 section, Pro Elite scooped silver after a hard fought 10-0 loss to the Squad of Excellency in the final.

Despite the scoreline, the match was fiercely contested and the result didn’t reflect the intensity and competitiveness on display.

The Under-11 team went a step further, claiming gold with a dominant 30-0 win over St Michael’s in the final. They also swept the individual awards in the Under-11 category.

Tapiwa Makamure was named Best Try Scorer, while Sandile Kona walked away with the Best Forward Player award.

Zimbuzz caught up with Pro Elite coach Promise Chinyunyu, who praised his team’s performance and the value of such tournaments.

“It was a great tournament for us, and overall, events like these help us grow as Zimbabwean rugby. I was really impressed with the boys,” he said.

“Sandile Kona deserved the forward player award. His carries were immense, and he tackled hard. Tapiwa Makamure scored nearly three quarters of our tries. At Under-9, it was unfortunate we missed out on gold, but the boys played well.”

Chinyunyu also thanked the academy’s sponsors: Honey Dew Pharmacy, Chems Africa, Budget Health Medical Aid Society, Ritz and Thelm, Ariella Guest Lodge, and Gleam Clearing and Logistics, for their continued support.

Pro Elite Academy Chairman Arthur Kona also expressed his pride in the academy’s progress.

“When we started, the goal was simply to get kids active. Now, we’ve grown from five players to over 80 kids in the academy.

Winning silver and gold at the Squad of Excellency Festival is a true testament to the hard work of both our coaches and administration.”

Pro Elite’s next assignment will be at the end of August, when they travel to KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, for an Under-13 Sevens tournament at Michaelhouse.

 

Festival Results:

Under-9 (Pro Elite):

  • Pro Elite 10–0 Squad of Excellency (2)
  • Pro Elite 20–5 St Michael’s
  • Pro Elite 5–0 Squad of Excellency
  • Semi-final: Pro Elite 10–0 Squad of Excellency (2)
  • Final: Pro Elite 0–10 Squad of Excellency

 

Under-11 Green Team (Pro Elite):

  • Pro Elite Green 10–0 Shaun De Sousa Rugby
  • Pro Elite Green 10–5 Squad of Excellency
  • Pro Elite Green 20–0 NPS
  • Final: Pro Elite Green 30–0 St Michael’s

 

Under-11 Black Team (Pro Elite):

  • Pro Elite Black 15–10 NPS
  • Pro Elite Black 10–5 Squad of Excellency
  • Pro Elite Black 0–0 St Michael’s ‎<This message was edited>

 “Share a Coke” Returns to Zim, And Everyone’s Hunting for Their Name

Michael Shoko
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 “Share a Coke” Returns to Zim, And Everyone’s Hunting for Their Name

Coca-Cola’s iconic Share a Coke campaign has officially returned to Zimbabwe and this time, it’s hitting different.

 

Launched with fanfare last Friday, the campaign relaunch was celebrated at a high-profile event attended by Coca-Cola and Delta executives, VIP guests, and brand ambassadors.

And the vibe was that of pure nostalgia meeting up with the new-school energy.

First rolled out globally in 2011, Share a Coke let people find their names on bottles and cans instead of the classic Coca-Cola logo.

Now, nearly 15 years later, a whole new generation is discovering the hype for the first time and TikTok is already blowing up with reactions.

In Zimbabwe, Gen Z is all over it.

Users are hitting up stores to hunt for their names (and their crush’s) on bottles, turning a simple soft drink run into a mini treasure hunt.

And if your name’s missing? Don’t stress.

Barry Otieno, Senior Manager for Frontline Marketing at Coca-Cola Zimbabwe, says local Share a Coke activations will give fans a shot at personalising their own cans and bottles. Keep an eye out for events in your neighbourhood.

@zimbuzz

If you haven’t found your name on a Coca-Cola bottle or can yet, here’s how you can get it #ShareACokeZim #ShareACoke

♬ original sound – Zimbuzz

Even better, scan the QR code on selected Coca-Cola products to submit your info and get early access to promos and exclusives the brand has lined up.

Barry Otieno, Senior Manager Frontline Marketing, Coca-Cola Zimbabwe says, “In today’s digital world, it is important to celebrate the unique bonds of friendships and celebrate this important human connection.”

“Share a Coke” reminds us that memories happen when we come together and experience the real magic of human connection; those spontaneous moments of laughter, stories, and genuine connection, shared over a Coca-Cola can, make life so special.

My charge to everyone is thus, “who would you like to Share a Coke with and make those memories last?”

Scottland Humiliate FC Platinum with Record Win, But Remain Second in Title Race

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Scottland Humiliate FC Platinum with Record Win, But Remain Second in Title Race

Scottland FC delivered a stunning statement of intent in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League on Saturday, thrashing FC Platinum 5-2 at Mandava Stadium in what has become their biggest win to date and the heaviest defeat ever for veteran coach Norman Mapeza.

 

In a match that shook the title race, Scottland ended FC Platinum’s 23-match unbeaten run in brutal fashion, putting five past a usually disciplined side and sending a clear message that the league debutants are not just participating they are contending.

Former FC Platinum forward and Scottland captain, Walter Musona, opened the floodgates in the 10th minute from the penalty spot after being fouled in the box.

Although Shephard Mhlanga briefly restored parity for the hosts, Tymon Machope fired Scottland back into the lead with a classy strike just before halftime.

Machope completed his brace early in the second half, before Moses Shidolo made it 4-1 with a calm finish.

FC Platinum pulled one back through Wilfred Muvirimi, but Albert Manenji sealed the rout with Scottland’s fifth goal, capping a historic night for the Mabvuku-based side.

Despite the emphatic win, Scottland remains in second place on the log, with defending champions Simba Bhora holding on to top spot thanks to a 1-0 win over Chicken Inn.

Junior Makunike scored the solitary goal for Simba, ensuring they stayed a point ahead in the race.

At Rufaro Stadium, Dynamos ground out a narrow 1-0 victory over MWOS, courtesy of a Temptation Chiwunga penalty.

Dembare finished the match with 10 men after Shadreck Nyahwa received a red card, but held firm for their third win of the 2025 campaign.

Weekend results:

Dynamos 1–0 MWOS

FC Platinum 2–5 Scottland

Simba Bhora 1–0 Chicken Inn

TelOne 0–1 Manica Diamonds

ZPC Kariba 0–1 Greenfuel

Yadah 0–0 Triangle United

Highlanders 1-1 Ngezi Platinum

Bikita Minerals 2-1 CAPS United

Herentals 3-1 Kwekwe United

Sable Lager Hosts Champions Sables for World Cup Celebration

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Sable Lager Hosts Champions Sables for World Cup Celebration

Delta Beverages, through its beer brand Sable Lager, hosted the Zimbabwe national rugby team the Sables for a celebratory lunch at the Mandel Training Centre following their qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

 

The event included a token of appreciation from Sable Lager in recognition of the team’s recent success.

Sable Lager, the team’s official beverage sponsor since the brand’s launch in 2022, has been a consistent supporter of local rugby. In addition to sponsoring the Sables, the brand is also a key backer of the Harare Rugby League.

The celebration was colourful and well attended, with several players present, including captain Hilton Mudariki and his vice-captains Kudzai Mashawi and Aiden Burnett.

Also in attendance were members of the team’s management and executives from Delta Beverages.

Delta’s Marketing Director, Irimayi Muzorewa, delivered a passionate speech reaffirming the company’s commitment to rugby in Zimbabwe:

“Our dedication to advancing rugby in Zimbabwe is unwavering. Through Sable Lager’s sponsorship of the Sables, we’ve proudly stood by these remarkable sportsmen since the brand’s launch in 2022.

What began as a leap of faith has grown into a powerful partnership, and we will continue to support the Sables on your journey to the next Rugby World Cup in Australia.

Sable Lager represents the spirit of young, aspirational individuals striving for excellence. And excellence is exactly what you have delivered,defending your Rugby Africa Cup title in 2025 and securing a spot in the 2027 World Cup.

This achievement is a testament to your hard work, and we couldn’t be prouder to stand with you as you reach for even greater heights.

Indeed, ‘It’s Your Time.’ It’s your time to shine, time to raise your game higher, and to raise our nation’s flag even higher. This is your moment. Seize it, embrace it, and continue making Zimbabwe proud.

Thank you, and let’s celebrate our heroes!”

Sables team manager TJ Chifokoyo also expressed his gratitude to the sponsor:

“You had a lot of trust and belief in the team. Your support has been amazing. This journey has been long, and the partnership with Sable Lager has been a catalyst in our success.

Sponsorship goes a long way in supporting player welfare and the many behind the scenes needs of the team. Thank you for standing with us it truly is our time, as your motto says.”

The event concluded with the Sables, Delta Beverages staff, and executives taking group photos with the team and the Rugby Africa Cup trophy.

Bongeziwe Mabandla Makes Surprise Appearance in Shaka iLembe Season 2

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Bongeziwe Mabandla Makes Surprise Appearance in Shaka iLembe Season 2

Bongeziwe Mabandla appears in Shaka iLembe Season 2 as King Hintsa, the revered Xhosa leader, in Episode 6.

 

This short but impactful role adds to his growing list of on-screen appearances.

Known primarily for his work as a musician, Mabandla continues to bring his quiet strength and artistic depth to the screen in ways that resonate.

The emotional peak, however, arrives in Episode 5, where his haunting track “Khona” is featured during a gut-wrenching scene that left a lasting impression on viewers.

The song’s placement amplifies the emotional weight of the moment and showcases his gift for musical storytelling.

A critical and commercial success, Shaka iLembe continues to illuminate Southern Africa’s rich and complex history.

Bongeziwe’s contribution — both onscreen and through his music — is a proud moment for Xhosa storytelling in contemporary culture.

NPL returns with fresh faces and fierce rivalries

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NPL returns with fresh faces and fierce rivalries

Zimbabwe’s flagship club cricket competition, the National Premier League (NPL), returns this weekend for its fifth edition, boasting a revamped format, five debutant sides and the widest representation in the tournament’s history.

The 2025/26 season gets underway on Saturday, 2 August, with seven opening-round fixtures set to be played across the country over two days, as 14 teams begin the battle for the coveted silverware.

Defending champions Takashinga Patriots 1 are among the headline acts in a field that also includes familiar contenders such as Westside, Rangers, Gladiators and Takashinga Patriots 2.

But the spotlight will also shine on five newcomers – Chiredzi Cricket Club, Methane Lions, Eastern Titans, Alex Sports Club and Amakhosi 2 – who will be making their NPL debuts.

Under a new qualification system introduced by Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC), the top four teams from the previous season were granted automatic entry into the tournament, while the remaining 10 spots were filled through a combination of provincial league winners and a national playoff series.

The result is a competition with representation from six provinces, including traditionally underrepresented regions such as Masvingo and Mashonaland West, signalling ZC’s push to widen the game’s footprint.

This season’s curtain-raiser sees Methane Lions, one of Masvingo’s two new representatives, host Gladiators at Masvingo Sports Club, marking a historic first NPL appearance for the home side.

Also on Saturday, Westside – last season’s runners-up – travel to Harare to face Takashinga Patriots 2 at Old Hararians Sports Club, while Rangers meet Midlands outfit Mbizo in Kwekwe.

The action continues on Sunday with champions Takashinga Patriots 1 beginning their title defence against Queens Sports Club at Kwekwe Sports Club.

In Bulawayo, sibling sides Amakhosi 1 and Amakhosi 2 will clash in a much-anticipated local derby at Bulawayo Athletic Club, while in Masvingo, Chiredzi Cricket Club – another of the new additions – host Rimuka from Mashonaland West in their first top-flight appearance.

Rounding off the weekend is the encounter between Alex Sports Club and Eastern Titans in Harare, two more debutants eager to make their mark in a competition that continues to grow in both stature and scale since its inception in 2020.

The second round of matches is scheduled for 6 and 7 August, with the league set to feature a total of 91 games.

The final round is pencilled in for mid-September, as teams across the country jostle for supremacy in what promises to be the most competitive NPL season yet.

NATIONAL PREMIER LEAGUE – MATCHDAY 1 FIXTURES:

DAYDATEMATCHVENUE
Saturday2 August 2025Methane LIons v GladiatorsMasvingo Sports Club
Mbizo v RangersKwekwe Sports Club
Takashinga Patriots 2 v WestsideOld Hararians Sports Club
Sunday3 August 2025Alex v Eastern TitansAlex Sports Club
Chiredzi v RimukaMasvingo Sports Club
Amakhosi 1 v Amakhosi 2Bulawayo Athletic Club
Queens v Takashinga Patriots 1Kwekwe Sports Club

Brendan Taylor Back in Zimbabwe squad after 3-Year Ban

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Brendan Taylor Back in Zimbabwe squad after 3-Year Ban

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has announced the addition of Brendan Taylor – one of the country’s most accomplished cricketers – to the national squad for the second Test match against New Zealand, scheduled for 7-11 August 2025 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

 

He became available for selection following the completion of a three-and-a-half-year suspension imposed by the International Cricket Council (ICC), after he accepted responsibility for breaching both the ICC Anti-Corruption Code and the ICC Anti-Doping Code.

Since then, Taylor has undergone a thorough rehabilitation programme and has consistently demonstrated a sincere commitment to personal growth, accountability and restoring trust.

ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni has welcomed his return, describing it as a story of redemption and a source of inspiration for Zimbabwean cricket.

“Brendan has endured an incredibly difficult chapter in his life and shown genuine remorse, coupled with a powerful determination to make things right – not just for himself but for the good of the game in Zimbabwe,” Makoni said.

“He has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, remained disciplined throughout his rehabilitation and has now rightfully earned his place back in the national setup.

“We’re happy to see him in a good space again. His experience, skill and passion for the game will bring immense value to the team.”

A veteran of 34 Test matches since making his debut against Sri Lanka in May 2004, Taylor boasts an impressive record that includes six Test centuries and 12 half-centuries.

With 9 938 international runs across formats, he ranks as Zimbabwe’s third-highest run-scorer.

His 17 international centuries are the most by any Zimbabwean player.

Before his hiatus, Taylor was in strong form in the longest format, recording scores of 92, 81 and 49 in his last three Test innings.

His reintegration into the national setup began ahead of the ongoing first Test against New Zealand, where he was invited to train with the squad.

Reflecting on his journey back to international cricket, a visibly emotional Taylor expressed deep gratitude for the support he has received from ZC, team-mates and technical staff.

“I certainly did think it was all done, but here I am – and it’s an overwhelming feeling of gratitude,” he said.

“I have to pinch myself a little to realise that I’m actually here. I’ve been soaking it all up and embracing every moment. It’s just been a really nice integration.

“The last year and a half has certainly been dedicated to my return. I’ve put in an immense amount of work – from fitness to the technical side to diet – and I’m feeling a lot leaner, fitter and mentally stronger. That’s only been possible through sobriety.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this journey on my own, just rebuilding the blocks, and I feel in a wonderful space.”

Londie London Reclaims the Spotlight with Euphoric New Single “Izandla”

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Londie London Reclaims the Spotlight with Euphoric New Single “Izandla”

Londie London makes her long-awaited return with “Izandla”, a vibrant 3 Step anthem that signals a bold new chapter in her musical journey.

 

Rooted in rhythm, feeling, and freedom, the track sets the tone for her reintroduction not just as a voice, but as a presence.

“Izandla” is more than a single. It’s a statement.

A soulful and sun-drenched chant, the track pulses with the hypnotic bounce of 3 Step, elevated by Londie’s signature sultry vocals.

It radiates joy, movement, and celebration  inviting listeners into a summer state of mind: barefoot in the sun, surrounded by friends, fully present in the moment.

As the first release from her upcoming album, Izandla marks the beginning of a sonic revival for Londie London, one that’s honest, unapologetic, and rhythmically rich.

Welcome to the next era. Londie London is here, and she’s got something real to say

Londie London (real name Londiwe Siphiwokuhle Zulu) is a South African singer, songwriter, and performer known for her sultry voice and emotive sound.

Born in Durban and raised in a musically inclined family, Londie first stepped into the spotlight with her breakout feature on D-Black’s “Ma Nonko” and later cemented her presence in the industry with hits like “He Goes”, “You Were Mine”, and “Nomakanjani”.

Blending influences of R&B, Afro-soul, and contemporary African sounds, Londie’s music explores themes of love, empowerment, and self-discovery.

A former jewellery design student at the University of Johannesburg and a finalist in the UJ Idols competition, she’s a creative talent with a flair for reinvention.

Beyond music, she is an entrepreneur and media personality, known for her roles on The Real Housewives of Durban and her lifestyle brands Laced by Londie and Ochiali SA.

With her 2025 comeback single “Izandla”, Londie London marks a vibrant return to the spotlight — ready to reintroduce herself to the world with rhythm, grace, and something real to say.

Flavour Marks 15 Years of Uplifted, the Album That Transformed Contemporary Highlife

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Flavour Marks 15 Years of Uplifted, the Album That Transformed Contemporary Highlife

Flavour is marking a major milestone with the 15th anniversary of Uplifted, the seminal album that helped shape a generation of African pop music and ushered in a new era for contemporary Igbo highlife.

 

Released in 2010, Uplifted was a breakthrough moment for the Enugu-born musician, delivering timeless anthems like “Nwa Baby (Ashawo Remix),” “Oyi,” and “Adamma.”

The album married traditional highlife rhythms with a modern, global Afropop sound; cementing Flavour’s place as a cultural powerhouse and taking Eastern Nigerian music to international stages.

Now, 15 years later, Uplifted remains a touchstone in African popular music — a celebration of language, identity, rhythm, and soul. While Flavour continues to top the charts with new releases, the resurgence of TikTok has introduced Uplifted to a new generation.

In December, he gained over 200,000 new TikTok followers after “Ashawo” and  “Adamma” and went viral during the holiday season.

To honour its legacy, Warner Music Africa is rolling out a multi-platform campaign throughout July and August, designed to celebrate Flavour’s impact and reintroduce the album to a new generation of fans discovering his music through live performances, short-form content, and street culture.

Celebrating Legacy. Reaching New Generations.

The campaign will feature a number of special activations, including:

  • A refreshed 15th Anniversary Edition of Uplifted’s top tracks, featuring newly updated arrangements with The Cavemen
  • Never-before-seen behind-the-scenes footage and untold stories from the Uplifted era
  • Curated playlists spotlighting Flavour’s inspirations, musical peers, and key collaborators
  • A one-night-only showcase event — uniting friends, collaborators, and fans in a live celebration of Uplifted and its enduring legacy

From wedding dancefloors to stadium stages, Flavour’s sound has remained ever-present in the hearts of listeners across Africa and beyond. His ability to evolve while staying rooted in culture has made Uplifted more than just a debut, it’s a blueprint.

“Uplifted is part of who I am. To see it still resonate 15 years later is a blessing. This moment is for the fans who’ve been on this journey with me, and for the new listeners just discovering the music,” said Flavour.

The 15th anniversary of Uplifted is both a reflection on Flavour’s legacy and a celebration of the music’s continued relevance in today’s soundscape.

CABS injects US$50 000 into domestic cricket

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CABS injects US$50 000 into domestic cricket

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has received a significant boost with sponsorship amounting to US$50 000 from leading financial institution CABS, aimed at directly supporting the country’s five first-class provincial teams.

 

The funding will go straight to Eagles, Rhinos, Tuskers, Mountaineers and Southern Rocks who compete in the Logan Cup, Pro50 Championship and Domestic T20 Competition.

What sets this partnership apart is its direct-to-team funding model, empowering them to make investments in key areas such as coaching, talent development and player welfare.

“We are grateful to CABS for coming on board as a valued partner in our domestic cricket journey,” ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni said.

“This kind of corporate support plays an important role in strengthening the game’s foundation and enabling long-term growth.

“For our provincial teams, it means greater stability and the ability to invest more consistently in key areas such as player welfare, coaching and talent development – factors that are essential to building a stronger pipeline for the future of Zimbabwean cricket.”

This inclusive model strengthens cricket’s national footprint and expands opportunities for communities traditionally underrepresented in the sport.

“This sponsorship is more than support for cricket – it is a commitment to the dreams of Zimbabwe’s young people,” CABS Managing Director Mehluli Mpofu said, emphasising the broader impact of the partnership.

“Across the country, there are talented, passionate youths who see sport as a pathway to opportunity, purpose and pride.

“At CABS, we recognise that potential. By investing in domestic cricket, we are answering their call, building platforms for growth and helping shape a future where every young Zimbabwean has a chance to shine.”

The direct funding mechanism also enhances financial transparency and governance, allowing for clearer budgeting and stronger accountability – key pillars of a sustainable and modern cricket ecosystem.

CABS has a long-standing relationship with cricket, dating back to 2004 when it first supported T20 competitions.

Over the past two decades, the institution has quietly but consistently backed cricket development initiatives, helping to uncover and nurture emerging talent across the country.

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