Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
BULAWAYO burst into celebration yesterday as three of its brightest young karate talents returned home to a hero’s welcome, carrying continental medals and the weight of a nation’s pride after the African Youth Games in Angola.
Rumbidzai Makamache, Makanaka Mulopa and Georgina Mhondera touched down in the city having flown the Zimbabwean flag high on one of Africa’s biggest youth stages. The Bulawayo based trio claimed two bronze medals at the continental showpiece, a reward for discipline, courage and teamwork against the best young karatekas on the continent.
Makamache led the charge with a bronze medal in the girls’ individual kata, before combining with Mulopa and Mhondera to secure another bronze in the kata team event. Their efforts played a key role in Zimbabwe’s overall medal tally of three, with the other bronze coming from Bradley Kadzombe in the boys’ kumite +76kg category.
Speaking on arrival, Makamache reflected on a campaign that tested both body and mind.
“The experience was good it was very hot but we enjoyed ourselves. It was very tough but we are happy that we brought medals home,” she said.
Mulopa said the tournament offered valuable lessons that went beyond the podium, exposing them to different styles and standards across the continent.
“The competition was quite exciting. We saw other countries also taking part, which was a good experience for us and it was quite a tough competition. We would have wanted to perform more and maybe get gold but we are still grateful for what we achieved,” she said.
Mhondera highlighted the bond within the team, pointing to unity as the foundation of their success.
“We had a great time. We really enjoyed it. We interacted with athletes from different countries. The competition was stiff but we managed to pull through as a team and we came back with the bronze.”
Bulawayo provincial karate chairperson Sensei Ndabezinhle Mazibuko described the medals as a statement of intent from the province, saying they reflected steady growth and commitment at grassroots level.
“We are very proud. I think this is a sign that as a province we are doing very well. I encourage the girls to keep working hard. I think this will inspire other karatakas.”
The trio’s return comes as Zimbabwean karate prepares for another major milestone, with the country set to host the World Karate Federation Youth Camp in Harare next year. The camp, to be led by world and Olympic champions, will focus on skills development, mentorship and cultural exchange, a platform expected to further lift the sport’s profile and standards locally.
derick.khumalo