Monday, April 28, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 3

Zimbabwe U19 defeat Ireland U19 in series opener

The Zimbabwe Under-19 men’s team made a winning start to their five-match youth one-day international series against the Ireland Under-19 side, securing a four-wicket victory at Harare Sports Club on Thursday.

 

A composed, unbeaten 48 from Brandon Ndiweni guided the hosts to their target with five overs to spare.

After winning the toss and electing to field, the Zimbabwe Under-19s found themselves on the back foot early on as the visiting team’s Freddie Ogilby (69) and Adam Leckey (66) put on a commanding 114-run partnership for the second wicket.

Ogilby, who struck nine fours and a six in his 80-ball knock, was eventually dismissed in dramatic fashion – caught by Kian Blignaut off the bowling of his brother Michael while attempting a slog-sweep over cow corner.

Leckey, having faced 77 balls and hit five fours and two sixes, was bowled by Shelton Mazvitorera soon after.

The Zimbabwean bowlers then staged a strong fightback, with Mazvitorera effecting a brilliant run-out to send Sebastian Dijkstra back without scoring, reducing the Ireland Under-19s to 175 for four in the 35th over.

Wickets continued to tumble as Sebastian Yeates (17), Robert O’Brien (16) and Febin Manoj (13) made brief contributions before the visitors were bowled out for 236 in 47.4 overs.

Panashe Mazai led the attack with impressive figures of three for 29 in seven overs, while Tatenda Chimugoro also claimed three wickets, conceding 47 runs in nine overs.

The Zimbabwe Under-19s’ chase began on a shaky note as Dhruv Patel departed without scoring in the first over.

However, a 55-run stand between Kupakwashe Muradzi (31) and Kian Blignaut (18) steadied the innings before both fell in quick succession, leaving the hosts at 60 for three in the 14th over.

Tatenda Banda and Brandon Senzere then rebuilt the innings with a 61-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

Senzere impressed with a fluent 43 off 41 balls, hitting four fours and two sixes, before falling in the 26th over.

Simbarashe Mudzengere added a valuable 21 off 21 balls, setting the stage for a crucial 62-run stand between Banda and Ndiweni that took the home side within touching distance of victory.

When Banda was bowled for 45 off 85 deliveries, the Zimbabwe Under-19s still needed 21 runs from 42 balls.

Ndiweni, showing great maturity, ensured there were no further hiccups, finishing unbeaten on 48 from 44 balls, with one six and four boundaries.

Chimugoro, who blasted two fours to finish on eight not out, supported him in completing the chase, as the Zimbabwe Under-19s reached 237 for six in 45 overs.

For the Irish, Reuben Wilson and Manoj were the pick of the bowlers, claiming two wickets apiece.

The teams will face off again in the second match of the series at the same venue on Saturday.

ZIFA Launches National Competition to Design New Warriors Football Kits

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has launched the “Warrior Pride: Brand Design Battle” – a national competition inviting Zimbabweans to create the new visual identity for the country’s national teams.

 

ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi announced the groundbreaking initiative today, calling it “a celebration of national pride, creativity and football passion that puts our collective identity in the hands of Zimbabweans.”

“For the first time in our history, we’re giving graphic designers, artists and football fans across Zimbabwe the power to shape how our national teams present themselves to the world,” Magwizi said.

“This is more than a competition – it’s a movement to unite the nation through design and sport.”

The competition challenges participants to submit:

– A brand name and logo with inspiration narrative

– Three jersey designs (yellow home, green away, white alternate kits) incorporating national flag colors

– Optional branded merchandise concepts

Open to all Zimbabweans including professionals, youth and football enthusiasts, the contest offers life-changing rewards.

The winning designer will receive $3,000 cash, an all-expenses-paid trip to watch the Warriors’ 2025 AFCON opener, and see their creation become Zimbabwe football’s official branding.

A prestigious adjudication panel including Dr. Crispen Sachikonye (Chairman), former football star Desmond Maringwa, and creative leaders like Carl Joshua Ncube will evaluate entries.

After selecting four finalists, the public will vote via social media to determine the winner.

“The Warriors belong to every Zimbabwean,” Magwizi emphasised.

“Through #WarriorPride and #ZimKitChallenge, we’re creating a platform for our nation’s incredible talent while building an identity that truly reflects our spirit and resilience.”

With submissions due by May 15, 2025, the six-week competition promises to ignite national creativity.

Interested participants can find full competition details on ZIFA’s official platforms.

Stay Safe This Easter Holiday: Essential Security Tips

As Zimbabweans prepare for the upcoming Independence and Easter holidays, ensuring home and business security is crucial. Increased travel and festivities often attract crime, making it essential to take proactive security measures.

 

According to Safeguard Security’s customer services manager, Lol Ribeiro, criminals often target both occupied and unoccupied premises during holidays.

To safeguard homes, he recommends installing security systems with cameras, motion detectors, and remote monitoring apps like Safeguard’s Ajax wireless alarm system.

Having an alarm system linked to an emergency rapid response service ensures swift action if an alarm is triggered.

Ribeiro advises using timers or daylight sensors to control lighting and give the impression that someone is home. Additionally, homeowners should lock all doors and windows, suspend package deliveries, and inform a trusted neighbor of their travel plans.

Those with domestic staff should provide remote-controlled panic buttons linked to security services.

Testing alarm systems before departure is critical to confirm they are working, especially during power outages. Backup power solutions and regular checks on electric fences and outdoor beams help prevent malfunctions.

For those considering extra security, Safeguard offers security guards, electric fences, burglar bars, and security gates. Ribeiro warns that last-minute security guard bookings may result in unavailability.

Business Security During Holidays

Businesses face heightened security risks during holidays due to reduced operating hours. Ribeiro advises reinforcing entry points with Xpanda security gates and educating employees on safety protocols.

Valuables such as cash and sensitive documents should be securely stored in safes or transported using secure services like Safeguard’s cash-in-transit unit.

Upgrading security systems, ensuring CCTV cameras cover critical areas, and connecting surveillance feeds to Safeguard’s response center can help deter crime. Visible security presence in businesses that remain open during holidays is also a strong deterrent.

Travel Safety Tips

For travelers, Ribeiro emphasizes avoiding oversharing travel plans, as this can attract criminals. He advises packing smartly, keeping valuables out of sight, and researching accommodation security features.

Public areas such as airports and bus terminals require extra caution—travelers should stay vigilant, monitor belongings, and avoid leaving bags unattended.

Safeguard rapid response clients can use the Safeguard phone app, which includes a panic button for emergencies. The app also features options for medical emergencies and roadside assistance.

Those traveling for extended periods should inform Safeguard and provide contact details of someone looking after their home. Safeguard can also arrange periodic visits to check on unoccupied premises.

“The holiday season should be about joy, not stress,” Ribeiro concludes. “Be neighborly, watch out for unusual activity, and keep emergency numbers handy. Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce risks and ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday.”

Demi Lee Moore announced as the latest face of Spotify’s EQUAL Africa campaign

Celebrated Afrikaans music sensation Demi Lee Moore has been announced as the latest face of Spotify’s EQUAL Africa campaign, a milestone marked by her appearance on the iconic Times Square billboard in New York City.

 

This achievement celebrates Moore’s continued impact on the music scene and coincides with the release of her highly anticipated new album, Klein Dingetjies.

Spotify’s EQUAL initiative, launched in 2021, is dedicated to amplifying the voices of women in music and championing gender equality in the industry.

Through this platform, Spotify provides women artists, producers, and creators the visibility they deserve across its global network. Moore’s inclusion underscores her influence not only in South Africa but also on the world stage.

“Being part of the EQUAL campaign means the world to me,” says Moore. “It’s an honor to stand alongside so many incredible women and to inspire others who dream of making their mark in music.”

Her latest album, Klein Dingetjies, offers listeners an intimate and heartfelt journey across eight tracks. Among these is the chart-topping hit “Hart Breek” and the newly released single “Net Myne.”

The album also features the deeply personal ballad “Die Mooi In Jou,” a tribute to her husband on their second wedding anniversary, and the powerful duet “Iemand Soos Jy” with Elandré.

Notably, Klein Dingetjies also includes a touching homage to the late songwriter Johan Oberholzer.

His song, sent to Moore prior to his passing, finds its rightful place as the album’s closing track — a poignant reminder of the connections that music fosters.

Moore’s impact extends beyond her music, as she continuously inspires fans with her authenticity and dedication to her craft.

Her collaboration with Spotify EQUAL Africa not only highlights her artistic achievements but also serves as a beacon for other aspiring women artists across the continent.

A special kykNET program chronicling Moore’s journey aired on March 22, offering viewers an intimate look at her rise to prominence. Featuring contributions from industry stalwarts and loved ones, the program celebrated the moments that have defined her career.

Dating Show Pop the Balloon Is Coming Live to Netflix with a new Twist

Beginning April 10, Netflix will stream a reimagined version of the beloved internet series Pop the Balloon.

 

Pop the Balloon LIVE is the same show fans know and love, but with even higher stakes, fresh twists, and celebrity surprises, all unfolding in real time.

For those who are just now … popping in, Pop the Balloon is a speed dating–style online show created by Bolia Matundu (BM) and Arlette Amuli, who also serve as executive producers of the new Netflix iteration of the YouTube series.

In the show, participants line up, and others “pop the balloon” of those they’re not interested in, essentially eliminating them from the dating pool.

As connections form and tensions rise, one thing is certain: When your balloon pops, so, alas, does your shot at love on the show.

The live version will bring eliminations, unpredictable dilemmas, and unfiltered romance straight to viewers.

Plus, alongside everyday contestants, some of your favourite reality stars and personalities — including Johnny Bananas (The Challenge), Chase DeMoor (Too Hot To Handle), Farrah Abraham (Teen Mom), and Zaina Sesay (The Ultimatum: Marry or Move on) — will join the show, stepping into a whole new dating experience — raw, real and unlike anything they’ve faced before.

“We couldn’t be more excited to expand and reimagine Pop the Balloon on Netflix,” executive producer Matt Sharp says.

“This new iteration builds on the original’s core concept while pushing the boundaries of connection, chemistry, and unpredictability.”

Pop the Balloon LIVE is also executive produced by Dan Adler and Bonnie Biggs for Sharp Entertainment, as well as Ellen Rocamora.

“We’re thrilled to see Pop the Balloon take on a new life on Netflix,” Matundu and Amuli tell Tudum.

“From day one, we’ve kept love and fun at the heart of the show, and watching it evolve and soar beyond our wildest dreams has been truly exciting.

As executive producers, we’re proud to support this next chapter and can’t wait for both new and longtime fans to experience it.

Highlanders Let Victory Slip Again as Scottland Snatch Late Equaliser

Highlanders’ struggles to close out matches were once again on display as they conceded a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser against Scottland at a packed Barbourfields Stadium.

 

It was a frustratingly familiar scenario for Bosso, who had also squandered a lead in their previous Castle Lager Premier Soccer League outing, allowing GreenFuel to stage a late comeback for a 2-2 draw in Chisumbanje.

The dropped points have only intensified pressure on head coach Kelvin Kaindu.

The home side looked set for victory after Andrew Mbeba broke the deadlock in the 81st minute with a well-struck free kick.

However, Scottland dug deep into their experience and found a way back, snatching a point in stoppage time.

Substitute Mthokozisi Msebe rose highest to meet a Gareth Madhake cross, directing a powerful header past Bosso goalkeeper Raphael Pitisi, who had no chance of stopping the equaliser.

Scottland made significant changes to their starting lineup compared to their previous match—a defeat to Ngezi Platinum Stars before the international break.

Tichaona Chipunza made his debut after recovering from injury, while Godknows Murwira, Khama Billiat and Walter Musona all started on the bench.

Dynamos Secure First League Win

Meanwhile, at Rufaro Stadium, Dynamos secured their first three points of the season, moving out of the relegation zone with a crucial victory.

Having already defeated Simba Bhora in the Castle Challenge Cup earlier in the season, coach Lloyd “MaBlanyo” Chigowe once again masterminded the downfall of the defending champions.

A 54th-minute strike by Shadreck Nyahwa was enough to seal the win for Dembare, lifting the club’s spirits after a slow start to the campaign.

 

Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Matchday 4 Results:

Telone 1-0 CAPS United

FC Platinum 0-0 MWOS

Bikita Minerals 2-4 Greenfuel

Yadah 3-0 Kwekwe United

Ngezi Platinum 1-0 Triangle United

ZPC Kariba 1-0 Chicken Inn

Herentals 1-1 Manica Diamonds

Dynamos 1-0 Simba Bhora

Highlanders 1-1 Scottland FC

Yadah Revitalise Season with Convincing Win Over Kwekwe United

After a turbulent start to the campaign, Yadah FC finally secured their first three points of the season on Matchday 4 of the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League with a commanding 3-0 victory over Kwekwe United.

 

The Miracle Boys played with renewed confidence following FIFA’s decision to lift the club’s registration ban, which had been imposed due to their failure to comply with a FIFA Dispute Resolution Chamber ruling regarding unpaid contractual obligations to three Brazilian players.

Heading into the match, Yadah sat in 17th place with just one point from three games, having struggled with severe squad limitations that often saw them fielding matchday squads with only one or two substitutes.

However, with reinforcements now available, their dominant home win offers hope for a turnaround.

Among the new arrivals was silky midfielder King Nadolo, who returned to Yadah on a season-long loan from Scotland FC after a brief stint in the Northen Region Division One league.

A fan favourite during his 2024 spell, Nadolo was introduced in the 75th minute and showcased his usual creativity and composure in midfield.

Former Chicken Inn playmaker Innocent Muchaneka, also joining on a one-year loan from Scotland FC, was handed a start and played a key role in stabilising Yadah’s midfield.

Veteran striker Evans Rusike opened the scoring in the 37th minute, giving Yadah the lead with a well-taken finish.

Just before halftime, Burundian forward Francis Mustafa doubled the advantage from the penalty spot in the 44th minute.

Mustafa sealed the victory in style, scoring his second goal of the match—and Yadah’s third—with a stunning long-range strike from approximately 25 yards, ensuring the Miracle Boys claimed all three points.

With their first win of the season, Yadah will look to build on this momentum as they continue their campaign with renewed optimism.

Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Matchday 4 Results:

Telone 1-0 CAPS United
FC Platinum 0-0 MWOS
Bikita Minerals 2-4 Greenfuel
Yadah 3-0 Kwekwe United
Ngezi Platinum 1-0 Triangle United
ZPC Kariba 1-0 Chicken Inn
Herentals 1-1 Manica Diamonds

Teriro Drops Fiery New Amapiano Collab “Sugacane” Feat Magnito

Rising Afro-fusion artist Teriro has unveiled her sizzling new single, “Sugacane,” featuring Nigerian rap sensation Magnito.

 

The track, a pulsating blend of Amapiano and dance melodies, serves as the follow-up to her internationally acclaimed 2023 release, “L.O.V.E” (featuring Sona), which earned airplay on MTV and major radio stations worldwide.

Produced by Joshua ITETE—the mastermind behind Magnito’s hits “CANADA” and “CARTEL”—“Sugacane” is a certified groove machine.

The accompanying music video, shot in Lagos, Nigeria, showcases Teriro and Magnito’s electric chemistry, further amplifying the track’s vibrant energy.

Teriro, known for her genre-blending sound (R&B, Dancehall, and Hip-Pop), has steadily built a reputation as a dynamic performer, sharing stages with heavyweights like Omah Lay (on his Boy Alone tour in Italy), Naira Marley, Falz, and Reekado Banks.

Teriro

Her collaboration with Magnito was first teased in a February interview on MAX FM with Real Skillz, sparking anticipation among fans.

Now, the wait is over—and the payoff is sweet. “Sugacane” arrives just in time for Teriro to join Magnito on his upcoming UK tour, announced via the rapper’s Instagram.

With its infectious rhythm and cross-continental appeal, the track is poised to dominate playlists this summer.

Watch the music videoTeriro’s YouTube Channel

Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe Records Robust Growth, Deposits Up 119%

Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe achieved a historical cost profit of ZWG1,1 billion for the year ended 31 December 2024.

 

After adjusting for once-off technical accounting losses of ZWG 389 million incurred on its investment property portfolio at the beginning of the year, when the bank’s functional currency changed, and fair value gains of ZWG 51 million after an independent property valuation, the sustainable historical cost profit was ZWG 1,4 billion.

The Bank’s Chief Executive, Solomon Nyanhongo, attributed the strong performance to increased interest income on the one hand and unrealised gains on various currency positions that the Bank had taken on the other hand.

Net interest income increased by eight percent from ZWG 954 million in 2023 to ZWG 1,0 billion in 2024. Non-interest income amounted to ZWG 2,9 billion, giving a total income of ZWG 3,9 billion.

“The uplift in net interest income achieved during the period was largely driven by the increase in the Bank’s net lending book from ZWG 4,2 billion in December 2023 to ZWG 8,4 billion as new lending assets were written during the period, combined with the currency depreciation which was experienced in September 2024,” he said.

“The robust growth in the Bank’s lending book in local currency terms was partially offset by the downward revision in the minimum lending rates from as high as 130 percent in  February  2024 to close the year at 35 percent,” Mr Nyanhongo said.

He said the Bank registered a growth of 119 percent in its customer deposit base, reinforced by growth in both foreign and local currency deposits as new customers were acquired, combined with the upward impact of currency depreciation on USD deposits when expressed in ZWG.

“The Bank’s total operating expenses of ZWG 1,6 billion increased by 21 percent from ZWG 1,3 billion in the comparative period underpinned by the impact of the eighty percent currency depreciation which happened in September 2024.

This resulted in the undesired increase in the local currency equivalents of the Bank’s foreign currency denominated expenses,” Mr Nyanhongo said.

The Bank’s corporate social investment initiatives focused on education, the environment, and health and sanitation, with particular emphasis on supporting public health institutions.

During the period being reported, Stanbic Bank donated autoclaves worth USD 80 000 to four key health facilities across Zimbabwe and entered into a USD 75 000 partnership with the Brain and Spine Clinic, which provides life-changing neurological procedures to less privileged individuals.

Autoclaves are highly specialised equipment used to sterilise medical equipment in order to minimise infections in hospital environments.  Furthermore, in collaboration with Celebration Health, the Bank funded 50 hernia surgeries for underprivileged children under the age of five.

Mr Nyanhongo expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders for their contribution to the results.

“I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to our esteemed customers and stakeholders for their unwavering support and commitment as we continue to seek growth in a difficult operating environment”, he said.

“My deepest appreciation goes to the Stanbic Bank staff and management for remaining steadfast throughout the year. I would like to thank the Blue Bankers for their perseverance, hard work and determination towards providing exceptional customer service and for achieving these commendable results.”

In his statement accompanying the financial results, Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe chairman, Muchakanakirwa Mkanganwi, said the Bank ended the year with a qualifying core capital of ZWG 4.0 billion, which is equivalent to USD 156 million, while the regulatory minimum is the local currency equivalent of USD 30 million.

A dividend of ZWG 339 million was paid during 2024 out of the profits achieved in 2023. An interim dividend of ZWG 516 million for 2024 was approved by the board of directors and paid in November 2024.

“In the outlook to December 2025, major downside risks are likely to include the sustainability of the electricity supply, tight liquidity situation in the market, climate risks (including delayed rainfall), heightened geo-political risks and sluggish mineral commodity price trends,” he said.

He was confident that the Bank would be able to navigate these risks in the outlook period.

Zimbabwe to host SA, New Zealand for Tests, T20I tri-series

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) is thrilled to announce that Zimbabwe will host South Africa and New Zealand in a massive international cricket showdown spanning from June to August, featuring high-stakes Test matches and an electrifying T20 International (T20I) tri-nation series.

 

The highly anticipated tours will begin with Zimbabwe taking on South Africa in a gripping two-match Test series at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

The first Test is scheduled for 28 June-2 July, with the second following from 6-10 July.

After the red-ball battles, Zimbabwe and South Africa will shift their focus to the shortest format, heading to Harare Sports Club to meet New Zealand in a T20I tri-series that promises explosive action.

The T20I tri-series will begin on 14 July with Zimbabwe facing South Africa and two days later, on 16 July, South Africa will take on New Zealand.

On 18 July, Zimbabwe will meet New Zealand, before playing South Africa again on 20 July.

South Africa and New Zealand will face off once more on 22 July, while Zimbabwe will close their group-stage campaign against New Zealand on 24 July.

The tournament will conclude with the final on 26 July, where the top two teams will battle for the title.

All T20I matches will commence at 1300 hours local time.

Following the T20I spectacle, New Zealand will remain in Zimbabwe for a two-match Test series against the hosts at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

The first Test is slated for 30 July-3 August, with the second taking place from 7-11 August.

ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni hailed the upcoming international fixtures as a historic moment for Zimbabwean cricket.

“This is the biggest international home season we have had in years, and it is an incredible opportunity for our players to test themselves against two of the world’s cricketing powerhouses,” he said.

“Hosting South Africa and New Zealand for both Test cricket and an exciting T20I tri-series is a fantastic development for the growth of the game in Zimbabwe.

“We are looking forward to welcoming the teams and putting on a great spectacle for our passionate cricket fans.”

Zimbabwe last hosted a T20I tri-nation series in July 2018, featuring Australia and Pakistan, with Pakistan emerging victorious.

The last Test encounter between Zimbabwe and New Zealand dates back to July-August 2016, when New Zealand secured a 2-0 series win in Bulawayo.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe and South Africa have not met in Test cricket since their Boxing Day pink-ball Test in Gqeberha in 2017, a match South Africa won by an innings and 120 runs.

The last time South Africa played Test cricket in Zimbabwe was in August 2014, when they secured a nine-wicket victory in Harare.

MATCH SCHEDULE: SOUTH AFRICA AND NEW ZEALAND IN ZIMBABWE – JUNE-AUGUST 2025:

DAY

TEAMS

MATCH

VENUE

START

28 June-2 July

Zimbabwe vs South Africa

1st Test

Queens Sports Club

1000

6-10 July

Zimbabwe vs South Africa

2nd Test

Queens Sports Club

1000

14 July

Zimbabwe vs South Africa

1st T20I

Harare Sports Club

1300

16 July

South Africa vs New Zealand

2nd T20I

Harare Sports Club

1300

18 July

Zimbabwe vs New Zealand

3rd T20I

Harare Sports Club

1300

20 July

Zimbabwe vs South Africa

4th T20I

Harare Sports Club

1300

22 July

New Zealand vs South Africa

5th T20I

Harare Sports Club

1300

24 July

Zimbabwe vs New Zealand

6th T20I

Harare Sports Club

1300

26 July

Number 1 vs Number 2

Final

Harare Sports Club

1300

30 July-3 August

Zimbabwe vs New Zealand

1st Test

Queens Sports Club

1000

7-11 August

Zimbabwe vs New Zealand

2nd Test

Queens Sports Club

1000