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Scottland Stuns CAPS United: A Bold Statement in the Premier League

It was a match that had all the makings of a classic, with Scottland announcing their arrival as serious contenders in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League with a commanding 2-0 victory over CAPS United,

 

Their win over one of Zimbabwean football’s most storied clubs also sent a clear message to the league: “Scottland is here to win.”

The atmosphere at Rufaro Stadium was electric, a rare sight in recent years, as fans flocked to witness the clash between the traditional giants, CAPS United, and the ambitious newcomers, Scottland.

The stands were a sea of colour, a reminder of the magic that Zimbabwean football can produce when the stakes are high.

The first half was a tense affair, with both teams probing for openings. CAPS United tried to impose their will, but Scottland’s defense stood firm.

The newcomers, playing with the confidence of a team that had already tasted victory in their opening game against Triangle, looked dangerous on the counter.

However, the breakthrough eluded both sides as the teams headed into the break deadlocked at 0-0.

The second half, however, belonged to Scottland. Coach Tonderai Ndiraya, whose side had a narrow win in their first game against Triangle, was a relieved man as Tymon Machope opened the scoring in the 47th minute.

The goal, assisted by the returning Khama Billiat, shifted the momentum firmly in their favour.

Second-half substitute Sydney Urikhob killed off the game in the 90th minute to guarantee Scottland their much-needed three points.

Elsewhere in the league, Highlanders bounced back from their opening-day defeat to MWOS with a resounding 4-0 victory over newly promoted Kwekwe United at Barbourfields Stadium.

Other Matchday 2 Results:
Herentals 0-0 Dynamos
ZPC Kariba 0-0 Simba Bhora
FC Platinum 1-0 Manica Diamonds
Ngezi Platinum 1-0 Greenfuel
Telone 4-1 Triangle United
Bikita Minerals 1-1 MWOS

MD2 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Standings:

Bonaqua Africa Triathlon 2025: Elite & Junior Triathletes Vie for Olympic Glory in High-Stakes Showdown

The Bonaqua Africa Triathlon 2025 is set to deliver a thrilling display of skill, endurance, and world-class competition as top senior Elite and Junior triathletes from around the world gather to race across the demanding swim, bike, and run disciplines.

 

With the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo on the horizon, this event promises to be a critical opportunity for athletes to collect valuable points and solidify their positions on the road to Olympic glory.

The Elite Men’s and Women’s categories feature a diverse and experienced field of triathletes, each bringing their unique skills and competitive spirit to the event. Among the standout competitors are:

  • Richard Murray (Netherlands): A seasoned triathlete with multiple international accolades, Murray’s experience and tactical prowess make him a formidable contender.
  • Rachel Klamer (Netherlands): A decorated Olympian, Klamer’s consistency and endurance in all three disciplines will be a highlight of the Elite Women’s race.
  • Noah Künz (Austria): A rising star in the triathlon world, Künz’s explosive speed and determination will be fully displayed as he vies for a podium finish.
  • Minori Ikeno (Japan): Known for her tenacity and technical skill, Ikeno is a force to be reckoned with in the Elite Women’s category.
  • Badr Siwane (Morocco): Representing Africa with pride, Siwane’s dynamic performance in the bike segment is sure to captivate audiences.

These athletes, alongside competitors from South Africa, Germany, France, Greece, and the USA, will bring a wealth of experience and international flair to the event, ensuring a fiercely competitive and unpredictable race.

Junior Athletes: The Future of Triathlon

The Junior Men’s and Women’s categories will showcase the next generation of triathlon stars, with young athletes eager to make their mark on the global stage. Notable juniors include:

  • Nicholas Horne (South Africa): A promising talent with a strong all-around game, Horne is one to watch in the Junior Men’s race.
  • Yanelisa Nomoyi (South Africa): A rising star in the Junior Women’s category, Nomoyi’s speed and determination have already earned her recognition on the continental stage.
  • Nathan Max Centlivres Chase (Namibia): Chase represents Namibia with pride, and his endurance and strategic approach will be key to his success.
  • Karli Lotter (South Africa): A versatile athlete with a strong swim and run, Lotter is poised to challenge for the top spot in the Junior Women’s race.

These young athletes represent the future of triathlon, and their performances in Bonaqua Africa Triathlon 2025 will be a testament to their potential to shine on the Olympic stage in the years to come.

As the countdown to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo continues, the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon 2025 takes on added significance.

For many athletes, this event is a crucial opportunity to earn valuable points and strengthen their chances of qualifying for the Olympics. The stakes are high, and the competition will be fierce, promising edge-of-the-seat action for fans and spectators.

Thrilling Disciplines: The swim, bike, and run segments will test the athletes’ endurance, speed, and tactical acumen, ensuring a dynamic and unpredictable race.

Global Representation: With athletes from Austria, South Africa, Japan, Morocco, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and beyond, the event celebrates the diversity and universality of triathlon. Olympic Aspirations: As athletes compete for points and pride, the event will serve as a stepping stone to the 2026 Winter Olympics, adding an extra layer of excitement and significance.

Warner Music Africa Francophone Hosts First Songwriting Camp In Abidjan

Warner Music Africa Francophone (WM AFR) hosted the first songwriting camp of its kind — Warner Music Camp Babi, bringing over 20 artists, producers and songwriters, from all around the continent for the official launch of the new venture.

 

The three-day event saw Black K, Ch’cco, Herc Cut The Lights, Hyce, Jeriq, Kold AF, Kouz1, Paulo Chakal, Ste Milano, and Yumbs come together to create new tracks and beats at Abidjan’s Villa Tahiba.

Importantly, the camp also saw invited talent such as Akim, Ayanne, Beeztrap, Dorty, G6$, Kemuel, Kiff No Beat, Mac Abel, Mr. Behi, Nikanor, Remy Baggins, Shaun, Spy Shitta, Suspect 95, Tamsir, and Yilim, participate in order to help connect artists from Côte d’Ivoire and the Francophone region with the rest of Africa.

The songwriting camp concluded in the official launch event for WM AFR, bringing together Warner Music Africa Managing Director Temi Adeniji, Africori CEO Yoel Kenan, and Warner Music France President Alain Veille.

The event drew key political figures and external music industry figures from across West Africa, led by the The Minister of Culture and Francophone of Republic of Côte D’ivoire, Madame Françoise Remarck.

In her remarks, the Minister discussed her ministry’s intention to work closely with the WMA FR team over the coming months on new innovative partnerships and opportunities to help discover and grow local talent.

Marc-Andre Niang, Co-Director, Warner Music Africa Francophone, says: “The blueprint for Warner Music Africa Francophone was to connect the best French-speaking talent with the rest of Africa, so I’m proud to see us do just this at our first songwriting camp.

“This was a truly pan-African experience and certainly the first of its kind in Francophone Africa.”

Yoann Chapalain, Co-Director, Warner Music Africa Francophone, adds: “It’s been powerful to see such a wide mix of artists join us here in Abidjan, with people flying in from all over Africa.

Warner Music Africa Francophone exists not just to sign talent but to connect artists from French-speaking regions to the rest of Africa; it’s in our DNA to take a pan-African approach with all of our artists. Thank you to Alain, Temi, and Yoel for trusting our creative vision.”

Streams of French-language tracks continued to rise in 2024, with over 83 million hours of French-language music streamed in over 180 countries, highlighting its dynamism as Francophone music booms across Africa.

And, as also reported by Spotify last year, more than 100 million users worldwide listened to at least one piece of audio content in French between August 2023 and July 2024.

Zambezi Steelers: The Surprise Package of the Paramount U20 Premier League

Newcomers Zambezi Steelers, who earned promotion from the First Division this season, defied expectations to finish third in the Paramount Under-20 Premier League round-robin stage.

 

They ended the campaign level on 25 points with Old Hararians but edged ahead due to a superior points difference, securing a spot in the semi-finals.

The Steelers’ journey began with a baptism of fire against three-time champions Pitbulls in Week 1. They held their own in the first half but were eventually blown away in the second period, succumbing to a 45-10 defeat.

Week 2 brought another stern test against Old Hararians. Despite a spirited performance, they fell short again, losing 33-15.

However, the Steelers finally broke their losing streak in Week 3 with a dominant 45-0 victory over Zimbru. Their momentum grew further in Week 4 as they shut out Northern Chiefs 24-0, marking their second win of the season.

The defining moment of their campaign came in Week 5 when they stunned a star-studded Old Georgians side 26-12 on their home turf. Munangi Kamwendo’s tactical brilliance and Mazvita Sithole’s explosive running proved instrumental.

Sithole’s two-try performance electrified a packed crowd and cemented his status as a key player.

The Steelers reinforced their playoff credentials with a 24-3 dismantling of a hapless Marondera Talons before sealing their semi-final spot in the final round by overcoming Harare Sports Club 26-17.

 

Semi-Final Clash Set

Zambezi Steelers will now face Old Hararians Sports Club in the Paramount U20 Premiership semi-finals, with the date and venue to be confirmed.

Speaking to Zimbuzz Sports, Steelers head coach Ricky Chirengende expressed pride in his team’s journey:

“We’re definitely very excited about how far we’ve come this season. We had a slow start, losing our first two games, but then we went on to beat two giants, Harare Sports Club and Old Georgians. That was a turning point for us.”

Chirengende credited the team’s success to a well-structured technical unit, which includes Lucky Sithole, Charles Gamhiwa, Tawanda Vundhla, and Antoine Palsman, as well as an outstanding medical team led by Amanda Tererai.

“Many people doubted us and thought we’d be the whipping boys. At times, we trained with only six guys on a Monday, just working on micro-skills.

“But the players bought into the vision. Some of them came from schools where they never really got the limelight—places like Watershed College, Allan Wilson, and Goromonzi. At Steelers, they found a place where they were appreciated, and that showed in their performances.”

 

Eyes on the Final

Looking ahead to the semi-final against Old Hararians, Chirengende remains cautious but confident:

“Old Hararians have only lost twice this season, so we have massive respect for them. They beat us in the round-robin, but we’re not the same team we were back then.

“We’ve grown in confidence, and we’ll go into that semi-final with the same desperation we’ve shown in our group games. Our goal is to reach the final, but regardless of the outcome, we’re immensely proud of what we’ve achieved this season. That said, we’re still hungry for more.”

The Zambezi Steelers have already made a statement in their debut season now, they aim to take it a step further.

Africa Takes the Lead in Sustainable Fashion with RLSD Africa 2025 Leather Design Competition

The Centre for Business Innovation and Training has launched the third edition of the Real Leather. Stay Different. (RLSD) Africa Talent Leather Design Showcase, a continental initiative that promotes leather as the material of choice for a sustainable future.

 

This year’s competition, part of a global campaign led by the Leather and Hide Council of America (LHCA) in collaboration with the Africa Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI), aims to highlight Africa’s exceptional design talent while advocating for sustainable fashion practices.

Leather, a naturally occurring by-product of the meat industry, is being championed as a durable and ethical alternative to synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, which are derived from petroleum-based plastics.

“The fashion industry cannot afford to ignore its environmental impact. Consumers are informed and change is inevitable,” said Kerry Brozyna, President of the LHCA.

“Leather stands at the heart of slow fashion because of its durability, offering an ethical and sustainable alternative to disposable fashion trends.”

The RLSD Africa 2025 competition invites designers from across the continent to create innovative leather products in three categories: apparel, footwear, or accessories.

Participants must incorporate at least 50% natural leather in their designs and submit storyboards, sketches, technical specifications, and concept explanations.

An expert panel of industry leaders will evaluate the entries, with finalists showcasing their winning designs at an exclusive event in December 2025.

The competition not only provides a platform for designers to showcase their talent but also serves as a launchpad for career advancement.

“The Real Leather. Stay Different. Africa Talent Leather Design Showcase 2025 champions leather as the material of choice for a sustainable future, providing designers across Africa with the skills, exposure, and platform to harness its beauty, versatility, and durability,” said Nicholas Mudungwe, Executive Director of ALLPI.

“Now is Africa’s time to lead in creating ethical, high-quality leather products and shaping the future of sustainable fashion.”

Last year’s competition, held alongside Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, showcased 14 finalists under the theme “Redefining Fashion’s Environmental Footprint.”

Ethiopian designer Ruth Girmay won Most Commendable Designer 2024 for her Overfishing Bag, inspired by marine conservation.

Other notable entries included Ugandan designer Eddie Louis’s Contemporary Leather Armour Collection and Kenyan designer Stephen Maosa’s Transformable Travel Bag, which won the People’s Choice Award.

The 2025 edition aims to expand participation across Africa, with the Most Commendable Designer representing the continent at the RLSD International Showcase.

All winners will receive industry recognition, certificates, trophies, and extensive global exposure, further cementing Africa’s role as a leader in sustainable fashion.

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.