Online Reporter
Bruce Chikuni
Sports Reporter
ZIMBABWE long distance runner, Royal Mabika, has set aside his quest for personal glory and will instead be doing it for Zaka Jerera’s cause when he takes part in the Manchester Marathon set for April 27.
Mabika is a man on a mission to raise funds for school fees for underprivileged children in Zaka.
The inspiration behind Mabika’s charitable endeavour came from a UK-based friend, Craig Haslack, who works for Puma.
Haslack had funded school fees for several Zimbabwean children, motivating Mabika to make a bigger impact.
“I’m running the Manchester Marathon because I was invited by a colleague from Puma to take on the challenge.
“However, I wanted to make an impact and run for my people in Zaka. When you empower someone with education you empower the whole village,” said Mabika.
Mabika’s connection to Zaka Jerera runs deep.
He has initiated many projects in the district.
They include a sports academy, which was set up in partnership with the Bullion Group, to promote local youth development.
“Zaka Jerera is a district very close to my heart. I feel like there’s a lot that I need to do,” he said.
A seasoned athlete, Mabika has won numerous races in Dubai and has contributed to coaching and sports development initiatives in the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Two years ago, he scooped a gold medal at the Mai Dubai City Half Marathon in Abu Dhabi, completing the 10km race in 30:26 minutes.
Despite recently recovering from injury, Mabika is resolute in his mission to empower orphans and vulnerable children in Zaka Jerera through education.
Mabika’s philanthropic efforts have caught the attention of the British Ambassador to Zimbabwe, who is an avid runner himself.
The two plan to meet to discuss organising a local event in partnership with the British Embassy to inspire communities and highlight the transformative power of sport.
“I have already started training and hopefully, I will be prepared by then.
“The British Embassy in Zimbabwe has been supporting my vision and they are promoting my dream in a unique way,” he said.
Mathew Masinge