Moffat Mungazi
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
THE mention of Chimanimani often conjures up memories of the devastating Cyclone Idai in 2019, which ravaged the district, claiming lives and destroying infrastructure.
Chimanimani is more than just a disaster zone as the district is renowned for its rolling hills, cool climate, and fertile soils, making it an ideal location for fruit and timber production.
It boasts an array of breath-taking tourist attractions, including Bridal Veil Falls, Tessa’s Pool, Chimanimani Mountain range, and Chimanimani National Park. The district’s mineral-rich soils have also drawn artisanal miners from across the country, seeking alluvial gold, while formal diamond mining operations have commenced in recent years.
Despite its natural beauty and economic potential, sport has never been a notable aspect of Chimanimani’s identity and claim to fame.
A modest football project, born out of the devastation of Cyclone Idai in 2019, has blossomed into a beacon of hope for top-flight league football in Chimanimani.
Founded in 2023 by six visionary individuals — Simon Muyambo Mikiseni, John Chikodzi, Olive Mambambamba, Alfred Ndima, Donald Zunga, and Munyaradzi Jambaya — Rusitu Tigers FC has become a symbol of resilience and determination in the district.
Rusitu Tigers FC has made a bold statement of intent with the appointment of Johannes Nhumwa, former Manica Diamonds head coach, as their new gaffer.
Director of Rusitu Tigers FC, Simon Muyambo, expressed his optimism: “We genuinely hope that one day, the people of Chimanimani will be able to watch Premiership football on their doorstep.
“When we started this project, it was meant to be a source of sports entertainment and something to occupy local youths, and keep them away from drug abuse as well as showcase football talent.
“More importantly, it was formed in the aftermath of Cyclone Idai, and it was meant to console the people of Chimanimani by giving them a pastime activity. The project would naturally market our agricultural products such as bananas and other fruits each time visiting teams come down to Rusitu.
“Judging by the progress we have made in a short space of time; we have no doubt that premiership football in Chimanimani is a dream that can come true. If other remote districts in the country can achieve that, why not Chimanimani?”
Accordingly, the hiring of well experienced and talented individuals like Nhumwa speaks volumes of their appetite for success in the ZIFA Eastern Region Division One League.
Muyambo said: “Johannes Nhumwa brings in a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role at our club. We have no doubt that he is a good coach who is capable of bringing us the desired results.”
Nhumwa’s impressive track record and tactical acumen make him an ideal candidate to lead Rusitu Tigers FC.
The team’s hierarchy is confident that he will bring stability and success to the club.
As Nhumwa begins his new tenure at Rusitu Tigers with trails for prospective new players set for tomorrow (Saturday) at Ndima High School grounds, he will be tasked with assembling a competitive squad and plotting a course of action for success in the upcoming season.
With his guidance and expertise, Rusitu Tigers FC fans are eagerly anticipating a bright future for their team and more importantly, achieve premiership promotion.
