mbulelo smpofu
Innocent Kurira, innocent.kurira@chronicle.co.zw
AS he reflects on his illustrious refereeing career, Jimmy Makwanda’s eyes light up with a mix of nostalgia and satisfaction. With a career spanning over two decades, Makwanda has established himself as one of the most respected and accomplished referees in Zimbabwean football history. He bowed out upon reaching 45, as per requirements, on the final day of the term last month in a match between GreenFuel and Dynamos.
Makwanda’s illustrious refereeing career has been marked by numerous highlights, despite being marred by controversy on a few occasions. It’s more of the good than the bad. The veteran referee’s ability to bounce back from adversity has been a hallmark of his career, and his commitment to excellence has earned him widespread respect. Makwanda’s dedication to his craft has seen him officiate in some of the biggest matches in Zimbabwean football, including high-profile derbies and cup finals.
Makwanda has looked back on his illustrious career, highlighting the turbulent Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match between Highlanders and Dynamos at Barbourfields Stadium on 15 May 2022, as one of the moments he would love to erase. The match, which was the first competitive encounter between the two giants in front of a full house since the COVID-19 pandemic, was marred by violence and controversy. Makwanda, who was tasked with keeping the peace, had a torrid time as the match descended into chaos.
The turning point came in the 61st minute when Dynamos forward Bill Antonio was given his marching orders for a reckless tackle on Highlanders centre-back Andrew Tandi. The red card sparked a melee, with players from both teams involved in a heated exchange. The situation was exacerbated by the actions of the Highlanders fans, who threw bottles and other objects onto the pitch. In the midst of the chaos, Makwanda struggled to maintain order, and it took over 13 minutes to restore calm and clear the pitch of debris.
When play finally resumed, Highlanders took advantage of their numerical superiority and scored a late winner through substitute Washington Navaya. The victory sparked wild celebrations among the Highlanders fans, but the Dynamos players were left fuming, claiming that the goal should not have been allowed to stand. As the Dynamos players surrounded Makwanda, protesting the decision, the referee stood firm, insisting that the goal was legitimate.
Looking back on the match, Makwanda acknowledged that it was one of the most difficult he had officiated in.
“The match was always going to be a difficult one, given the history between the two teams. But I was determined to do my best and ensure that the match was played in a fair and safe manner. As a referee, you always want to be remembered for making the right decisions, but sometimes things don’t go according to plan. The match between Highlanders and Dynamos was one of those moments, and it’s a memory that I would love to erase,” Makwanda said.
Despite the challenges he faced, Makwanda remained committed to his principles and refused to be intimidated by the actions of the players and fans.
“I have always believed that referees should be impartial and fair, and I have always strived to uphold those principles. It’s not always easy, but it’s essential for the integrity of the game,” he said.
Makwanda’s retirement marks the end of an era in Zimbabwean football, but his legacy will live on through the many referees he has mentored and inspired throughout his career.
“I hope that my career will serve as an inspiration to young referees, and I hope that they will learn from my experiences. I am proud to have played a part in the development of Zimbabwean football, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the sport in the future,” Makwanda said.
Born in Triangle in 1979, Makwanda’s journey into refereeing began in January 2002. He spent 13 years on the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) panel, officiating in numerous high-profile matches, including cup finals. Makwanda’s passion for refereeing is matched only by his passion for education. He holds a degree in Educational Psychology from Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) and a Master’s degree in the same field. He is currently studying for his PhD.
Besides refereeing, Makwanda is a teacher and administrator at Junior Group of Schools in Masvingo, a prestigious Cambridge private school. He is also an academic consultant, driven by a passion for facilitating learning. As he looks back on his career, Makwanda is grateful for the support he has received from his family, friends, and colleagues. He singles out his wife, Belina, and their children, Arnold, Takudzwa, and Osley, for their unwavering support.
Makwanda also pays tribute to his instructors and referees’ bosses, who included Felix Tangawarima, Sabelo Maphosa, and Gladmore Muzambi, among others. He also acknowledges the role of the media fraternity in telling his story and that of other match officials. Although Makwanda has retired from top-flight refereeing, he will continue to officiate games at the school level.
“I actually joined refereeing to improve refereeing standards in schools. I will continue to play a role in the game, albeit at a lower level,” he said.
As Makwanda embarks on this new chapter in his life, he is driven by a desire to give back to the game that has given him so much.
“I hope to become an instructor for referees. I have a passion for facilitating learning, and I believe that I can make a positive impact on the next generation of referees,” said Makwanda. – @innocentskizoe
