Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
IN a scene more familiar with street corners than football circles, Highlanders junior coaches Sizabantu Khoza and Danny Ngwenya have taken the public route quite literally, in a desperate bid to fund their Caf C coaching course in Harare.
Like hungry men holding tin cans at busy intersections, the two respected youth mentors from one of Zimbabwe’s biggest football institutions are now depending on the goodwill of strangers and fans to chase professional dreams.
The course costs US$580 per head, and they’re also battling to cover accommodation and meals.
The heartfelt plea, posted across social media platforms, reads like a digital SOS:
“It’s a race against time. Let’s empower them. Your assistance in cash or kind will be greatly appreciated.”
Dubbed a “Sizani Bantu” initiative, the fundraiser has sparked both sympathy and outrage, among football lovers.
That coaches from a club as storied as Highlanders are begging for basics has raised tough questions about the financial health and priorities of the game.
Why didn’t the club foot the bill?
Acting CEO Kindman Ndlovu, was quick to clarify.
“They approached the club and terms were discussed. They chose the public route instead. There’s nothing wrong with that — we support them fully,” said Ndlovu, adding that even Highlanders leadership had chipped in personally.
Khoza, a former Bosso midfield maestro, said their decision was not a swipe at the club but a necessary move in tough times.
“Highlanders is home. We’re not owed anything. The chairman and treasurer have offered help and we appreciate that deeply,” he said.
The situation paints a painful picture of grassroots football in Zimbabwe. These are the very men grooming future stars, shaping tomorrow’s Warriors, yet they’re forced to go hat-in-hand just to upgrade their coaching badges.
Still, in true Bosso spirit, the football fraternity has rallied. Fans, former players and good Samaritans have stepped forward, donating and spreading the message.
The dream is alive. The begging bowl is full of hope. But the question remains — should our football heroes have to hustle like this?
In a country where sport often feels like a forgotten child, Khoza and Ngwenya have reminded us all: development starts with sacrifice — but it should never start with begging.
