BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

The inaugural Binga Kasambabezi Marathon is poised to become a flagship event in Binga, promoting local tourism and community engagement.

Recent Ncube, Local Organizing Chair for the marathon, shared the inspiration behind the event and its potential impact on the local community.

“As a preparatory marathon for the Vic Falls event, 10 wellness athletes who used to jog in the morning decided to craft the Binga Kasambabezi Marathon,” Ncube explained.

Event Details
– Route and Distance: “The marathon starts at the Binga Freedom Square and the same venue acts as the finishing line,” Ncube stated.
– Participant Numbers*: The organizers expect around 1500 participants.
– Support Systems: “We have five hydration stations manned by AFC, Netone, Kmtc and others,” Ncube revealed.

Cultural Significance and Community Engagement
The marathon will be accompanied by a cultural festival, featuring traditional events. “On the 26th of September we have a full dish of cultural events such as Chilimba, Ngoma also displays by herbalist, curvers, weavers and traditional games by schools,” Ncube added.

Future Plans
This year’s event marks the 8th edition of the marathon, and the organizers plan to continue hosting it annually. “We will continue to assert Binga district as the place to be yearly,” Ncube emphasized.

The Calenders

BY WANDILE TSHUMA

In a session of the Zimbabwean Parliament on Tuesday, Stanley Sakupwanya, Chairman of the Parliamentary Caucus on Youth Affairs, urged the government to implement an Unemployment Benefit Scheme specifically for former athletes who represented Zimbabwe on the global stage.

His address highlighted the challenges faced by young sportspeople who forgo education and career opportunities to pursue their athletic dreams, only to find themselves without support once their sporting careers conclude.

Sakupwanya began his remarks by celebrating the recent certification of the National Sports Stadium by the Confederation of African Football, underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing the sports sector. However, he expressed concern about the broader needs of young people participating in various sports, noting the lack of adequate support and resources.

“While we commend the initiatives focused on football, it’s critical to remember that our youth engage in many disciplines,” Sakupwanya said.

He pointed out that athletes often sacrifice their education and well-being at an early age, with a 29-year-old athlete facing retirement instead of the traditional educational opportunities available to their peers.

He painted a vivid picture of the struggles faced by these young athletes, stating, “When they shine on international platforms, they return home only to encounter a void. Their accolades fail to translate into sustainable opportunities or support.”

Sakupwanya emphasized that without a structured program like the Unemployment Benefit Scheme, these individuals risk falling into poverty or becoming susceptible to drug abuse due to inactivity and economic hardship.

His proposal called for the Ministry of Finance to prioritize an Unemployment Benefit Scheme in the upcoming 2026 Budget Strategy Paper, which would serve as a critical safety net for athletes transitioning to civilian life, enabling them to rebuild and reintegrate into society successfully.

In a supportive response, David Mnangagwa, the deputy Minister of Finance and Investment Promotion, acknowledged the validity of the call for such a scheme. He expressed his commitment to advancing discussions on employment benefits tailored towards youth development and sports, indicating the government’s readiness to explore solutions that uplift young athletes.

BY SOCCER LADUMA

The football fraternity is mourning the sad passing of former Orlando Pirates and Zimbabwe international striker Tendai Ndoro, who has died after a long battle with illness.

Ndoro, affectionately known as ‘Fire’ during his playing days, lit up stadiums across South Africa and beyond with his clinical finishing and charismatic presence on the field. He was 40 years old.

“Yes, unfortunately he was found dead in his apartment here in South Africa. I am still in communication with someone close to his family,” confirmed a close source.

A prolific career across Africa and abroad

Born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Ndoro rose to prominence with Chicken Inn in the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League, where his eye for goal earned him widespread recognition. His exploits soon took him to Mzansi, joining Mpumalanga Black Aces before sealing a move to Orlando Pirates in 2015.

At Pirates, Ndoro became a fan favourite, delivering memorable performances in the famous black and white jersey. During his time at the Buccaneers, he scored some crucial goals, including some memorable ones, that cemented his reputation as one of the most lethal strikers in the PSL.

Following his successful spell in Soweto, Ndoro’s career saw him venture abroad with Saudi Arabian side Al-Faisaly, before returning to Mzansi with Ajax Cape Town and Highlands Park.

On the international stage, Ndoro represented Zimbabwe’s Warriors, earning caps between 2013 and 2017, including an appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Health battles in later years

After hanging up his boots, Ndoro’s health became a major concern. In recent years, he suffered serious complications, including reported temporary blindness and a sharp decline in his physical condition, which worried the football community. Despite undergoing treatment and even speaking positively about recovery following surgery earlier this year, Ndoro’s battle sadly came to an end.

Remembering Fire

Tributes have already begun pouring in from former teammates, clubs, and fans who remember Ndoro not only for his goals but also for the passion and flair he brought to the game.

Ndoro’s story is one of immense talent, resilience, and a career that inspired many young footballers in Zimbabwe and South Africa. He will be remembered as a striker who, at his peak, could change a game in an instant.

May his soul rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind.