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St John’s Mukuru Derby Festival Returns for a Week of School Sport and Celebration

The St John’s Mukuru Derby Day Sports Festival is set to return, with financial services giant Mukuru once again backing the event.

 

The festival, which will feature rugby, soccer, and hockey for both boys and girls, will run from 27 April to 2 May.

This marks the second year Mukuru has come on board as sponsor, with the company extending its partnership for another three years.

The 2026 edition will also be the fifth year of the derby festival’s existence.

Zimbuzz  sport caught up with St John’s College sports director Chris Fourie a month ahead of the festival to get an update on preparations.

“It’s not easy to put together such a festival, but thanks to the team we have at St John’s, everyone knows their role. That helps us create something special and bring the vision to life. It’s now our fifth year doing this, so we have a solid framework in place,” said Fourie.

He also highlighted what defines success for the festival.

“The measure of success is the kids on the field. As long as they are smiling, having fun, and enjoying themselves, that’s what matters. The community also plays a big role by coming out in numbers to support and be entertained. Sport plays a role in bringing people together.”

Rugby remains one of the main attractions of the festival, with 19 schools set to participate. This year will also include an international presence, as St Alban’s College from Pretoria, South Africa, returns to the festival.

St Alban’s will face St George’s College on Tuesday, before taking on traditional rugby powerhouse Peterhouse on Thursday.

They will wrap up their tour against hosts St John’s College, Harare in the final match of the festival on Saturday, 2 May.

Milton High School and Lord Brighton College will also return after making their debut at the 2025 edition.

In the soccer section, 14 schools are expected to participate. Perennial giants Prince Edward School and Churchill School will renew their traditional rivalry, while Watershed College, Kyle College, and Gateway High School are also set to feature.

On the hockey front, eight girls’ teams and eight boys’ teams will take part. One of the standout fixtures will see Chisipite Senior School face Arundel School under floodlights on Friday, 1 May.

The clash is known for its intensity and is expected to be another highlight of the festival.

Feature image by Wonder Mashura

Unplugged Returns this Saturday With Ami Faku Headlining Expanded Festival

Unplugged Zimbabwe, one of the country’s longest-running live music festivals, is set to return on March 28 with what organisers describe as the most ambitious edition in the event’s history, featuring South African Afro-soul star Ami Faku and a strong lineup of local artists.

 

The festival will be held at First Capital Bank Sports Club in Harare and will run from midday to late evening, combining live music performances with family entertainment, digital gaming experiences and a new talent development initiative.

Headlining the event is Ami Faku, one of South Africa’s most celebrated Afro-soul artists, who will perform with her full live band.

She will be joined by Zimbabwean performers including Nutty O, Voltz JT and Kae Chaps, as well as emerging artists Atenda Chinx and MuGaratia, who will be making their Unplugged festival debuts.

Organisers say the 2026 edition will also mark the launch of the Unplugged Next Superstar Initiative, a talent development program designed to identify and promote emerging Zimbabwean musicians.

Selected artists will have the opportunity to perform on the Unplugged stage alongside established acts and receive mentorship, recording opportunities and promotional support.

Beyond the music, the festival is positioning itself as a full-day family event.

A supervised kids’ zone will run during the afternoon with games and activities for younger attendees, while a Live Experience Arcade will offer interactive gaming and digital entertainment for festivalgoers throughout the day.

Founded in 2013, Unplugged Zimbabwe has grown into one of the country’s most recognised outdoor music events, known for its focus on live performance and its mix of local and international talent.

Over the years, the festival has attracted audiences ranging from families and young music fans to tourists and creatives, building a reputation as one of the region’s leading live music experiences.

Organisers say the festival’s long-term goal remains supporting the growth of Zimbabwean music by providing a professional platform for artists while creating an inclusive entertainment experience for audiences.

Woman who says Bill Cosby dru_ged,rap_ed her awarded $20m in damages

Bill Cosby just took a huge loss in court today after a jury reportedly awarded $19.25 million to Donna Motsinger after she alleged the comedian drugged and raped her in 1972.

 

Jurors reportedly found Cosby liable for sexual assault and sexual battery while awarding Motsinger $17.5 million for past mental suffering, and $1.75 million for future suffering.

In 2018 a Montgomery County jury found Bill Cosby guilty of the only criminal charges to emerge from a career-ending scandal fueled by dozens of women who accused the entertainer, once known as “America’s Dad”, of sexual assault.

Cosby was convicted on three counts of aggravated indecent assault for dru_ging and sexually assaulting Andrea Constand in a Philadelphia suburb in 2004.

Story developing...

Injury Blow for Warriors as Maswanhise Withdraws From Four Nations Tournament Squad

Zimbabwe’s national football team has been dealt an early setback ahead of the Four Nations Tournament after forward Tawanda Maswanhise was ruled out of the squad due to injury.

 

Maswanhise, who plays for Motherwell in Scotland, was expected to join the Warriors for the international tournament but reported a minor injury following his club match against Hibernian over the weekend.

The forward will remain in Scotland to manage the injury and will not travel for national duty.

The withdrawal is part of a broader injury concern for the national team, with experienced forward Knowledge Musona also ruled out, along with Prince Dube and Thando Ngwenya, who are all sidelined with injuries ahead of the tournament.

In response, the Warriors technical team has named replacements to reinforce the squad.

Washington Navaya of Hardrock FC has been called up, alongside Jarrison Selemani of FC Platinum, Mongameli Tshuma of Highlanders and Godknows Murwira of Scottland FC.

Despite the injury setbacks, the coaching staff will be hoping the new additions can integrate quickly into the squad and maintain momentum as the national team looks to put in strong performances during the tournament.

Khama Brace Powers Scottland to Comfortable Win Over FC Hunters

Scottland FC delivered a dominant performance at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday, defeating newcomers FC Hunters 3–0 in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Matchday 4 encounter, with Khama Billiat leading the charge in an emphatic victory.

 

Scottland started the match aggressively and nearly won a penalty in the second minute when Msebe was bundled off the ball inside the box as he prepared to shoot, but the referee waved play on.

Despite the early pressure, FC Hunters gradually settled into the game, and both sides began to move the ball confidently, reflecting the possession-based styles associated with coaches Norman Mapeza and Saruchera.

The breakthrough came in the 21st minute when Billiat scored with a glancing header from a well-delivered cross by Shidolo.

The goal marked Billiat’s third of the season under Mapeza and gave Scottland control of the match.

Billiat nearly doubled the lead before halftime when he rose above the defence to meet a Walter Musona cross, but Hunters goalkeeper Shangiwa reacted quickly, diving to his left to push the ball out for a corner.

Scottland came out stronger in the second half and extended their lead just four minutes after the restart.

Once again, Billiat rose above the Hunters’ defence, this time heading in a Walter Musona corner kick to make it 2–0.

Walter Musona later added the third goal from close range, sealing a comfortable victory for Scottland, who continued to create chances throughout the match.

The home side could have scored more goals late in the game, but Gurirab failed to beat the goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation, and Mureremba’s rebound effort went wide.

Castle Lager Premier Soccer League MatchDay 4

Agama 1-1 Dynamos

Scottland 3-0 Hunters

MWOS 2-1 Bulawayo Chiefs

ZPC Kariba 2-0 Manica Diamonds

CAPS United 2-0 Hardrock

FC Platinum 2-2 Telone

Simba Bhora 0-0 Highlanders

Chicken Inn 0-0 Ngezi Platinum

CAPS United Maintain Perfect Start With Victory Over Hardrock FC

CAPS United’s strong start to the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season continued as they secured their fourth consecutive victory with a win over Hardrock FC, maintaining early momentum in the title race.

 

Under coach Takesure Chiragwi, the Harare giants have now recorded victories against Agama, Herentals, Triangle and Hardrock FC, a run that has positioned them among the early pace-setters in the league.

The match began at a high tempo, with CAPS United taking the lead just four minutes into the game through in-form forward Ishmael Wadi.

The striker reacted quickly after Obriel Chirinda’s effort struck the post, pouncing on the rebound to score his second goal of the 2026 season and give CAPS an early advantage.

Hardrock FC responded by pushing forward, with much of their attacking play coming down the right wing through Sambulo Simelani, who caused problems with his pace and delivery into the box.

Despite creating pressure and winning several corner kicks, Hardrock failed to convert their opportunities.

Around the half-hour mark, CAPS United nearly doubled their lead when Chirinda struck the inside of the crossbar. For a moment, CAPS players and supporters believed the ball had crossed the line, but the referee waved play on.

Hardrock came out stronger in the second half and nearly equalised when reigning 2025 Soccer Star of the Year Washington Navaya found himself in a promising position, but he was denied by CAPS United goalkeeper Magalane.

CAPS United eventually sealed the win through teenage substitute Allen Mukombedzi, who once again made an immediate impact from the bench, continuing his impressive start to the season.

The goal came after a well-delivered cross into the penalty area, where Wadi rose highest and headed the ball against the crossbar.

Mukombedzi reacted quickly to the rebound, heading the ball into the net to double CAPS United’s lead and secure the victory.

With four wins from four matches, CAPS United’s early season form has sent a strong message to the rest of the league as Chiragwi’s side continues to build momentum in the opening weeks of the campaign.

Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album kicks off with Lighter by Jelly Roll and Carín León

Today, the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album roll-out begins with the global release of Lighter by Jelly Roll and Carín León, produced by Cirkut, via Def Jam Recordings.

 

Lighter marks the first chapter of a groundbreaking album created for the most inclusive FIFA World Cup™ in history and is now live across all major streaming services.

A collaboration between three defining artists from the tournament’s host nations – Jelly Roll (United States), Carín León (Mexico) and Cirkut (Canada), the 2026 GRAMMY Award Winner for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical – Lighter brings together the three host countries through one collaborative sound.

Blending Jelly Roll’s country roots with Carín León’s regional Mexican influence, the track bridges genres, reflecting the shared cultural energy of North America and the global passion for the game.

“The FIFA World Cup is one of the rare moments when the entire world moves to the same rhythm,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“The Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album is not simply a musical accompaniment to the tournament; it’s a statement about where the global game is going. By bringing together artists whose voices resonate across continents, we are creating something that mirrors the scale, ambition and cultural impact of this historic competition.

“Lighter marks the beginning of that journey. It is a powerful expression of resilience, energy and joy – a song that will connect with fans everywhere and become part of the atmosphere in stadiums, fan celebrations and communities around the world throughout the tournament.”

Reflecting on the track and collaboration, Jelly Roll shares: “Music has a way of reaching people in places you’d never expect, and the way this song came together with Carín León and Cirkut is proof of that. I’ve had a whole lot of respect for both of them for a long time, so getting to come together on this record has been real special. Grateful to be able to share it with folks all over the world.”

“Collaborating with an artist like Jelly Roll, and doing so for nothing less than the biggest sporting event in the world, is something that fills me with pride,” adds Carín León.

“As a Mexican, I’m incredibly excited to be part of this project and to bring a piece of our music and culture to so many corners of the world. Very grateful for the opportunity and happy to share what we love most: music from the soul.”

On shaping the record, Cirkut notes: “Working with Jelly Roll and Carín León on the first record of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Album was a real honor. We wanted to create something that carries the sound and soul of the host countries, and hits in a way that connects with fans around the world.”

As the opening release from the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album, Lighter signals a new era for FIFA World Cup music.

The album will reflect the multifaceted nature of the beautiful game – different styles, different paces and different cultures working together in harmony.

The full album will feature artists across continents and genres, purposefully curated to mirror the diversity of the 48-team tournament and the global communities it represents.

By bringing together established global stars and emerging voices, the project serves as a strategic cultural bridge, connecting football audiences with music enthusiasts and inviting fans to engage with the artists they already love.

Cimas–SmileStar Outreach Delivers Free Dental Care to Underserved Communities in Zimbabwe

A two-week dental outreach led by Cimas Health Group in partnership with the United Kingdom-based charity SmileStar has brought free oral healthcare services to hundreds of patients across Matabeleland North and South, underscoring the growing role of partnerships in expanding access to care.

 

The initiative, which concluded on March 20, forms part of Cimas Health Group’s corporate social responsibility program and focused on underserved communities with limited access to dental services.

The outreach provided treatments including tooth extractions, restorative procedures and oral health education.

“This is our second time fusing global expertise with local capacity to provide free essential oral healthcare services,” said Vuli Ndlovu, chief executive officer of Cimas Health Group.

“It is a critical yet often overlooked component of overall health for the communities we serve.”

The program began on March 9 in Victoria Falls before moving to Dete in Hwange, then to Matobo and concluding at Matopo Mission Clinic.

Over the course of the outreach, medical teams treated large numbers of patients daily, performing hundreds of extractions and dozens of restorative procedures at each location.

The initiative also marked the first time the outreach expanded into Matabeleland South, building on last year’s inaugural program, which treated more than 1,100 patients.

Ndlovu emphasized that collaboration between local and international partners is central to delivering sustainable healthcare solutions.

Cimas–SmileStar Outreach

“Sustainable healthcare cannot be achieved in isolation, but through strong, purpose-driven partnerships that combine expertise, resources and a shared commitment to healthier communities,” he said.

The outreach brought together local partners, including hospitality groups in Victoria Falls and Hwange, alongside SmileStar’s team of volunteer dental professionals.

This year’s program saw an expanded medical team, increasing capacity to meet demand in remote areas.

Beyond immediate treatment, the initiative also focused on prevention. Ndlovu said raising awareness around oral hygiene is key to improving long-term health outcomes and reducing pressure on the broader healthcare system.

“Preventive care saves lives, reduces complications and lowers costs,” he said, encouraging communities to seek early dental check-ups.

SmileStar founder Dr. Mitesh Badiani described the collaboration as impactful in addressing gaps in access to oral healthcare.

He noted that the outreach exceeded expectations, particularly in Matabeleland North, where turnout was high and more than 1,000 patients were treated over five days of clinical service.

The program reflects a broader shift in healthcare delivery, where providers are increasingly extending services beyond traditional facilities through mobile clinics and community-based initiatives.

For Cimas Health Group, Ndlovu said, the goal is clear: “Healthcare must be accessible, inclusive and sustainable.”

Zimbabwe to Host the 8th Africa Spelling Bee Championship

Harare will host some of Africa’s brightest young minds this week as Zimbabwe stages the 8th Africa Spelling Bee Championship, a continental competition designed to promote literacy, academic excellence and cultural exchange among students.

 

The event, organized by the Zimbabwe Spelling Bee (ZSB), will run from March 18 to 21 and is expected to bring together top spelling champions from at least 14 African countries.

Competitors from nations including South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Uganda will gather in the capital to compete for the title of Africa Spelling Bee Champion 2026.

The championship features both junior and senior categories, giving students from across the continent an opportunity to test their spelling skills while engaging in cultural exchange with peers from different countries.

Organizers say the competition is intended to do more than crown a winner.

“The championship is not only about spelling—it is about building the future of Africa through education, collaboration and shared excellence,” the Zimbabwe Spelling Bee said in a statement welcoming participants and delegates to the country.

The program will begin with preliminary and semifinal rounds running from March 18 to March 20, followed by the grand finale and awards ceremony on March 20. An official opening ceremony is scheduled for March 19.

Zimbabwe’s hosting of the event follows the successful staging of the 2025 edition in Nigeria. Organizers say bringing the championship to Harare reflects growing regional interest in initiatives that strengthen literacy and academic performance among young learners.

The tournament is being organized in partnership with Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, a collaboration aimed at promoting both educational development and the country’s role as a destination for international academic and cultural events.

Beyond the competition itself, the event will feature cultural showcases and networking opportunities for students, educators and stakeholders.

Organizers say the goal is to encourage unity among young Africans while helping participants build confidence, communication skills and global exposure.

Founded as a national educational initiative, the Zimbabwe Spelling Bee runs competitions across the country and supports students who go on to represent Zimbabwe in international spelling events.

The organization says hosting the continental championship offers a chance to highlight the role literacy plays in shaping Africa’s future.

Midweek Action as Castle Lager PSL Matchday 3 Takes Centre Stage

The 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League enters Matchday 3 with midweek fixtures scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.

 

Newcomers Hunters FC will face former champions FC Platinum at Rufaro Stadium on Wednesday.

CAPS United, the only team with a 100 percent record so far this season, will make their first trip outside Harare when they travel to Gibbo Stadium to face Triangle.

Highlanders will host Lloyd Mutasa’s MWOS at Barbourfields Stadium on Thursday.

Below are the rest of the Matchday 3 fixtures.

WEDNESDAY 19 MARCH 2026

MATCHVENUETIME
FC Hunters vs FC PlatinumRufaro Stadium1500HRS
Triangle United FC vs Caps United FCGibbo Stadium1500HRS
Hardrock FC vs Chicken Inn FCChahwanda Stadium1500HRS
Ngezi Platinum Stars FC vs ZPC Kariba FCBaobab Stadium1500HRS
TelOne FC vs Simba Bhora FCAscot Stadium1500HRS
Highlanders FC vs Mwos FCBarbourfields Stadium1500HRS

 

THURSDAY 19 MARCH 2026

MATCHVENUETIME
Bulawayo Chiefs FC vs Dynamos FCBarbourfields Stadium1500HRS
Manica Diamonds FC vs Scottland FCGibbo Stadium1500HRS
Herentals College FC vs Agama FCRufaro Stadium1500HRS