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Marvelous Nakamba: The ‘exceptional’ unsung hero who could save Aston Villa millions

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BY PATRICK ROWE

BIRMINGHAM – The affable Marvelous Nakamba is so often the unsung hero who’s set to feature more prominently for Aston Villa this season.

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With Douglas Luiz set for a break after his Olympic Games involvement, it’s Dean Smith who will will assess the possibility of Zimbabwean Nakamba stepping up in his absence.

This idea that Nakamba will see increased minutes in the near future has been reinforced through pre-season. The 27-year-old has started in both of the pre-season friendlies so far against Walsall and Stoke City which, again, suggests that the Villa coaching staff are keen to see how he has developed over the summer.

In a dull performance at the bet365 Stadium against Stoke on Saturday, Nakamba was one of the few positives to take from it as he looked increasingly confident on the ball as well as displaying his usual tenacity defensively.

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It may only be pre-season, but it is promising to know that his confidence could snowball going into the season after games like this

It is integral Nakamba does in fact carry this form into the beginning of the season knowing he could well be vital in midfield in the opening games against Watford, Newcastle United, Brentford and Chelsea.

Given Villa’s four-game winning start last season a positive start can set the tone for the entire campaign.

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A proportion of the fanbase, though, are keen for Villa to invest in a new defensive midfielder with rumours circulating regarding Southampton’s Oriol Romeu and FC Metz’s Pape Matar Sarr.

It poses a question, then; should Villa invest in this position knowing there are questions regarding Nakamba’s ability on the ball? Or should he be trusted to start the season as Smith’s first option?

The graphic, pictured above, outlines why fans and even the coaching staff may be doubtful regarding the Hwange born star’s reliability in the Villa midfield.

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There are no doubts regarding the Zimbabwe international’s defensive ability but, as the graphic shows, a lack of composure and ability on the ball could hinder Villa this season.

The statistics were taken from comparing him to his positional peers within the Premier League in the 2020/21 season and, amongst these players, he was in the top ten percent in; defensive pressures, successful pressures, blocks and stopping players dribbling past him – as well as ranking high in tackles and clearances.

Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips is regularly praised for his defensive work rate and non-stop running.

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He averages 23.6 pressures per game compared to Nakamba who averages 25.

Nakamba’s work rate is uncommon and wouldn’t be out of place in Marco Bielsa’s side.

Running figures that compete with Leeds United are somewhat of an anomaly in Villa’s squad and should be valued highly.

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An issue fans highlighted with Douglas Luiz was although he ran, he saw little to no results stemming from this.

Luiz averages 20 pressures per game for Villa, but with just five of these pressures leading to the opposition losing possession.

There were rarely results for this running. He possesses the work rate but lacks the ability to apply a press effectively.

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Nakamba operates on a much more efficient basis. With 7.5 successful pressures a game, he is in the top 10% of midfielders in the Premier League for forcing errors following his ability to apply a press.

This is one of the many weapons in his defensive arsenal that make him so problematic for attackers in this league.

His defensive IQ and ability to read opponents is clearly of a high degree. As well as the extraordinary level of pressures, he also averages 2.7 tackles, 2.5 blocks, two clearances and, for the season, was dribbled past less than once a game (0.72).

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He does everything Smith could want defensively, and more.

Another statistic that highlights his ability to read the game is the number of fouls he commits.

Nakamba averages just one foul a game, whereas Luiz averages more than double at 2.2.

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The frequency of Luiz’s fouls may show his poor positioning and judgement of the game in this position. These fouls have also cost Villa in vital situations such as the penalties conceded against Manchester United.

Nakamba’s ability to involve himself defensively whilst also staying out of trouble in terms of fouls is extremely useful and he should be applauded for his judgement and timing.

His outstanding defensive ability should surely be enough for him to secure this starting position for Villa?

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 Sadly, this is not the case with the issues as to why are outlined here; Nakamba can be perfectly represented by his performance away against Tottenham Hotspur last season.

Although he was solid defensively recording three tackles with a 100% success rate, 26 pressures and two interceptions, he was caught on the ball for Spurs’ first goal after being robbed of possession by Steven Bergwijn.

This is where issues arise for Nakamba. When you ask him to operate as the modern-day holding midfielder, its Villa who want him to be a calming influence on the ball who is able to not only break up play, but progress the team forward.

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As the aforementioned graphic outlines, his ability on the ball is a weakness of his and is the main issue holding him back from becoming a trusted starter for Villa.

He averages just 28 passes completed per game compared to Luiz at around 38. As the Spurs goal emphasises, he also struggles under pressure.

 With just 6.7 passes under pressure being made a game. Compared to more comfortable players in midfield such as James Ward-Prowse at around 8.3 passes under pressure a game.

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Being uncomfortable under pressure, especially in midfield could lead to costly error for Villa.

The incident at Spurs was a clear example of this. It is also well known that Nakamba is strongly left footed.

He averages just 3.8 passes attempted with his right foot, which is in the bottom 4% of Premier League midfielders.

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This lack of balance in midfield stagnates attacks for Villa. Also, whilst Nakamba attempts to readjust himself to use his left foot, it only increases the likelihood that he may get caught in possession.

However, the biggest stat from the lot is this one; in the six games Nakamba played 80+ minutes last season, Villa recorded 5 wins and 1 draw, with four clean sheets to boot.

His display against Chelsea in the last game of the season was also exceptional, leading the team with 31 pressures as well as recording eight blocks. He was an undeniable force defensively.

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Nakamba will be able to come in and produce for Villa.

However, whether he can develop his passing ability and secure this position for the foreseeable future remains to be seen.

 It will be interesting to see now whether or not Villa invest in a defensive midfielder before the transfer window ends.- Birmingham Mail

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Lifestyle

Marvin Dube: Spreading hope and gratitude through gospel music

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BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI 

Born in Kadoma and raised across various towns in Zimbabwe, gospel artist Marvin Dube carries with him the deep spiritual and cultural roots of his Tonga heritage from Junamina village in Binga. Now based in the United Kingdom, Marvin is making waves in the gospel music scene, using his voice and message to uplift, heal, and inspire.

Following his previous single “Munoziva Zvose”, Marvin continues to evolve as a gospel minister and artist. His latest songs, Tinetariro and Tendai Mwari, showcase a refreshing mix of faith, gratitude, and reflection on the moral and spiritual challenges facing society today.

Below are excerpts from his interview with Nokuthaba Dlamini, Managing Editor for VicFallsLive, where Marvin opened up about his inspiration, journey, and the purpose behind his new work.

What inspired these new songs, and what message do you hope listeners take away from them?

Marvin Dube:

Both Tinetariro and Tendai Mwari were born out of reflection and prayer. Tinetariro speaks about hope — the kind that reminds us we are God’s children, even in times of moral decline and confusion. I was inspired by the challenges we are facing today, especially among the youth. Many have lost direction and respect, and social media has become a space where spiritual values are often mocked.

I wanted to use Tinetariro to remind people that there’s still hope for our generation — that God hasn’t forgotten us.

Tendai Mwari carries a message of gratitude. It encourages us to appreciate God for the little we have and to remain thankful even before we receive the big things we dream of — the car, the house, the job. Gratitude opens doors, and I want listeners to embrace that attitude of thankfulness every day.

How do these songs reflect your personal journey or growth as a gospel artist?

Marvin Dube:

These songs mark a point of maturity in my journey. I’ve grown to understand that gospel music is more than melody — it’s ministry. I now write with more purpose, aiming to address real issues affecting believers and society. Tinetariro and Tendai Mwari reflect my growth in both faith and artistry, showing that gospel music can heal, correct, and inspire all at once.

Can you tell us about the creative process, from writing to production, and who you worked with on this project?

Marvin Dube:

My creative process is very spiritual and organic. I draw a lot of inspiration from preaching. Often, a melody will start as a small tune in my mind — it keeps ringing until I can’t ignore it. Usually, the chorus comes first. I then take time to pray for inspiration to write the verses so that the message aligns with what God wants to say through the song.

After that, I play the song on my guitar, record a rough version, and share it with the producer or the band I’ll be working with. For this project, I worked with Hertz Records, who have produced all my music to date. They truly understand my sound and help me bring my ideas to life.

I also want to give a special shout-out to my wife, Leonora, and my two little kids. They’ve been my biggest supporters and motivation throughout this journey. Their love and encouragement mean everything to me.

How do you see gospel music evolving in Zimbabwe and Africa, and where do you see your work fitting into that movement?

Marvin Dube:

Gospel music in Zimbabwe and across Africa is evolving in powerful ways. Artists are finding new ways to reach wider audiences by blending traditional gospel messages with contemporary sounds. It’s exciting to see how the gospel is being shared in modern, relatable ways — especially among young people.

I see my work fitting right into that movement. My goal is to be a bridge between generations — to deliver timeless spiritual truths with a fresh, modern sound that speaks to today’s world while staying true to the Word of God.

What has been the most powerful reaction or testimony you’ve received from people who have listened to your music?

Marvin Dube:

One of the most powerful testimonies I’ve received came from a young listener who said Tinetariro gave them hope again after going through a very dark season. They told me the song reminded them that God still has a plan for their life. Hearing that touched me deeply. It’s moments like those that remind me this is more than music — it’s ministry, and I’m humbled that God is using my songs to touch lives.

Closing Note

Marvin Dube:

I’m truly grateful for the love and support I’ve received for Tinetariro and Tendai Mwari. If you haven’t listened yet, both songs are available on all streaming platforms and on my YouTube channel, Marvin Dube. The year 2026 will be even more exciting, with several projects already in motion that I believe will uplift and bless many lives.

 

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National

Zimbabwe moves to establish tough drug control agency amid rising substance abuse crisis

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BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

As Zimbabwe battles a surge in drug and substance abuse, the government has tabled a new Bill in Parliament seeking to establish a powerful agency to coordinate enforcement, rehabilitation, and prevention programmes across the country.

The National Drug and Substance Abuse Control and Enforcement Agency Bill (H.B. 12, 2025) proposes the creation of a dedicated agency mandated to combat the supply and demand of illicit drugs, provide rehabilitation services, and strengthen coordination between law enforcement and social service institutions.

According to the explanatory memorandum of the Bill, the agency will operate under two main divisions — a Social Services Intervention Division to focus on prevention, treatment and community rehabilitation, and an Enforcement Division to target supply chains, trafficking networks, and related financial crimes.

The legislation describes drug abuse as “a grave internal national security threat” and “a public health crisis” that fuels organised crime, corruption and violence. It notes that drug profits have enabled criminal cartels to “purchase the instrumentalities of crime, including weapons,” and to corrupt both civilian and non-civilian public officials.

Under the new framework, the agency will have powers to:

  • Investigate and arrest individuals involved in drug trafficking and production;
  • Work jointly with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, and Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe;
  • Establish checkpoints at ports of entry and exit to intercept harmful substances; and
  • Expand the legal definition of “harmful drugs” to include emerging synthetic substances, in consultation with the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe.

The Social Services Division will lead prevention campaigns, develop demand-reduction programmes, and facilitate the creation of rehabilitation and detoxification centres nationwide. It will also introduce a monitoring system requiring schools, employers, and local authorities to adopt anti-drug awareness and intervention programmes within 90 days of the Act’s commencement.

Each province and district will host offices of the agency to decentralise services and ensure community-level engagement, while traditional leaders will help devise local prevention strategies.

The Bill further empowers the agency to employ prosecutors from the National Prosecuting Authority to handle drug-related cases, signalling a shift toward specialised prosecution of narcotics offences. It also introduces a new, stricter “standard scale of fines” and penalties for drug crimes — higher than those prescribed under existing criminal laws.

In a major development, the proposed law integrates the agency into Zimbabwe’s Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act, allowing it to pursue unexplained wealth orders and seize assets linked to drug cartels.

The Bill stresses rehabilitation and social reintegration as key pillars. It obliges the agency to support affected individuals through psychosocial counselling, vocational training, and community wellness programmes aimed at helping addicts rebuild their lives.

If passed, the National Drug and Substance Abuse Control and Enforcement Agency will replace fragmented anti-drug efforts currently scattered across ministries and law enforcement agencies, creating a central authority to drive national strategy and coordination.

Parliament is expected to debate the Bill in the coming weeks amid growing concern over youth addiction to crystal meth, cough syrups, and other illicit substances that have taken root in both urban and rural communities.

 

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National

Hwange unit 8 breaks down, deepening Zimbabwe’s power supply challenges

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BY WANDILE TSHUMA 

ZESA Holdings has announced that Hwange Unit 8 has been taken off the national grid following a technical fault, a development expected to worsen Zimbabwe’s persistent electricity shortages.

In a statement released on Monday, the power utility said the unit would be out of service for ten days while restoration work is carried out.

“Hwange Unit 8 has been taken off the grid due to a technical fault. The unit will be out of service for 10 days while restoration work is carried out,” ZESA said.

The company said Hwange Unit 7 remains operational, generating 335 megawatts (MW) to support system stability, while power generation at Kariba South Power Station has been ramped up with “careful management of water allocations” to compensate for the temporary shortfall.

ZESA apologized for the inconvenience and appealed for public understanding as engineers work to restore the unit.

Zimbabwe has faced recurring electricity supply challenges over the past two decades, driven by ageing infrastructure, limited generation capacity, and low water levels at Kariba Dam. While the commissioning of Hwange Units 7 and 8 in 2023 brought some relief, frequent breakdowns have continued to disrupt supply, forcing industries and households to endure prolonged load-shedding.

The latest fault at Hwange comes at a time when power demand is surging across the country, particularly during the hot season when air conditioning and irrigation systems increase pressure on the grid.

Energy experts say the outage highlights the need for greater investment in maintenance, renewable energy, and grid modernization to stabilize Zimbabwe’s power supply in the long term.

 

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