Rebuilding Kadoma’s Sports Legacy: A Call to Action

 

 

By Thomas Faranando

 

Kadoma, once a thriving hub of sports excellence, now lies in disarray. Rimuka Stadium, which hosted premier league matches, stands idle. The basketball courts that nurtured stars like Carlos Mumba are silent. Tennis and volleyball courts, where Youths Education through Sports (YES) games National finals took place, are now a distant memory.

 

Karen Chikowore, Programs Officer for Kadoma Youths for Development (KY4D), emphasized the need for collective action while speaking on the sidelines of a strategic planning workshop organized by the City of Kadoma on Friday at a local hotel. “It is the people of Kadoma who make Kadoma great once again,” she said.

 

Isa Saidi, a sports administrator now based in Namibia, echoed Chikowore’s sentiments, highlighting the city’s potential for growth through sports and arts. “Kadoma has a rich talent pool and a strong sports heritage. With the right investment and support, the city can thrive once again,” Saidi noted.

 

Kadoma has a rich sports heritage, producing soccer icons like former captain of Zimbabwe National soccer team, Curthebert Malajila, Norman Komani, the late Watson Muhoni, Blessing Makunike, Raphael Phiri, Kaitano Tembo, Takunda Benhura and basketball gurus with the likes of Carlos Mumba among many others. The arts sector has also benefited from Kadoma’s talent pool, with Charles Chipanga, Kinnah, Charles Pintec, Budiriro cultural Arts being notable examples.

 

KY4D’s call to action extends beyond local stakeholders. They urge individuals overseas to invest back home and market the city, showcasing its potential for growth and development.

 

“We have noted the call by KY4D and are working hard to restore the city’s glory,” said Kadoma Mayor, Ruzario. “We recognize the importance of sports in developing our youth and promoting community engagement.”

 

Raphael Phiri, former national soccer team goalkeeper, added, “We need to come together and rejuvenate these facilities. Even Rio Tinto grounds, which used to host National athletic competitions and premier soccer league matches, are now in disarray. It’s time for us to take action and restore Kadoma’s sports legacy.”