mbulelo smpofu
Panashe Marijeni
IN today’s media landscape, influencers play a pivotal role in shaping the flow of information and marketing, especially in fields like sports.
One such individual is Odacious Marowa, a former media personality who worked for ZBCtv in Harare and now works in Cape Town, South Africa.
His passion for football, coupled with his expertise in journalism, has positioned him as a key player in the industry.
Marowa’s journey in football began long before he became a household name in the media.
Born and raised in Zengeza, Chitungwiza Marowa’s love for the sport was ignited during his Inyathi High School days in the late 1980s and early 1990s, where he not only played but demonstrated an acute understanding of the game technically. Inyathi High School is in Bubi District, Matabeleland North Province.
He attended Tenganhamo Primary School and later Inyathi, the oldest mission school in Zimbabwe.
From his high school days, Marowa went on to play at Division Two level, showcasing his commitment to the sport.
However, his passion for football was not just limited to playing, he pursued his studies in journalism at The Christian College of Southern Africa (Ccosa), preparing himself for a career that would combine his love for football with the media.
Marowa’s professional journey in the media began when he joined the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) in 2002 as a novice.
During his tenure from 2002 to 2006, he gained invaluable experience providing football commentary and conducting post-match interviews.
In those early years of his career, Marowa worked alongside prominent figures in Zimbabwean sports media, such as Charles Mabika, Thandazani Zimbwa, Stan Katsande and Steve Vickers.
That period laid the foundation for his future success in both Zimbabwe and beyond. Marowa’s dreams did not stop at commentary.
He was driven by the desire to create a comprehensive sports show, with aspirations of producing a weekend sports jam.
His work with Classic 263 Sport, alongside Ronald Chiwanza, introduced his voice to the South African airwaves, where he gained further recognition.
His broadcasts for Classic 263 were from South Africa.
His voice was further exposed in Cape Town’s Hot Smile 905 Radio, and he also made appearances on Robert Marawa’s popular sports platform.
Marowa continues to build a legacy in the football industry.
He co-founded a football consultancy company, Klutchpabhora, alongside his partner Tinashe Godfrey.
The company has made significant strides in the media, with an active presence on YouTube and Facebook through podcasts, X and Instagram.
Marowa and Godfrey complement each other well, bringing unique skills and perspectives to their partnership, and are dedicated to elevating the football scene in Southern Africa.
Klutchpabhora is not just a consultancy; it is a bridge between football players, coaches, administrators, and fans.
As an active scout for Cape Town Spurs (formerly Ajax Football Club), Marowa is deeply involved in identifying and nurturing young talent.
The consultancy is focused on unearthing the potential of Zimbabwean footballers and helping them get opportunities on the global stage.
Marowa’s vision extends beyond individual players.
Klutchpabhora is working to establish Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with major football clubs, including South Africa’s Kaizer Chiefs.
“We are working on building relationships with teams like Kaizer Chiefs, especially through people like Jessica Motaung,” Marowa shared in an interview.
These collaborations aim to create pathways for Zimbabwean talent to rise through the ranks and shine on the international stage.
Marowa’s work through Klutchpabhora is revolutionising the way Zimbabwean footballers connect with opportunities.
“Tinashe is currently in Zimbabwe to meet with Simba Bhora’s secretary-general to discuss and outline our plans,” Marowa said, hinting at the future direction of his work.
Through his consultancy and active involvement with Cape Town Spurs, Marowa continues to be a rising force in the world of football.
His dedication to the sport, coupled with his media expertise, is helping to create a network that can fast-track the growth of football talent from Zimbabwe to the international scene.
His story is one of passion, perseverance and a commitment to giving back to the game that has given him so much.
shloboe boe
