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PREMIERSHIP giants Dynamos have paid tribute to seasoned journalist Simba Rushwaya, describing him as the doyen of sports journalism in the country whose death is a blow to Zimbabwean sport.
Rushwaya died at Parirenyatwa hospital on Wednesday, with the family revealing that he had been battling with colon cancer.
He was 49.
Rushwaya is expected to be laid to rest at his rural home in Birchenough today and as friends, relatives, and colleagues bade farewell to the Manica Post senior reporter, Dynamos, whom Simba covered during his stints at various media houses, saluted his contribution to the sport.
A church service was held at Nyaradzo funeral parlour in Harare, with such sporting personalities like George Manyaya who headed the ZIFA Mzansi’90 committee, ex-CAPS United president, and former Premier Soccer League chairman Twine Phiri among those in attendance.
Former CAPS United and Warriors coach Charles Mhlauri, now based in the United States, also sent his condolences as did ZIFA First Instance Board chairman Sharif Mussa, who worked with Rushwaya during his various stints as national team manager.
The Northern Region Soccer League described Rushwaya’s death as a “very sad moment for sport”.
Dynamos, who are preparing to return to continental football via the CAF Confederation Cup competition, indicated in a statement that Rushwaya’s death was not just a blow to football but all the sporting disciplines he interacted with during a career spanning over 20 years.
“Dynamos Football Club joins the Rushwaya family, the media sector, and the football fraternity in mourning the sudden demise of Simba Rushwaya.
“Simba was the epitome of fearless sports journalism, who would always critique objectively, the goings-on in the football and sports sectors,” Dynamos said.
“He belonged to a rare species of sports journalists who use the might of the pen to grow the sports industry.
“The sports industry is poorer following the passing on of a scribe par-excellence.
“We urge the up-and-coming sportswriters to follow in the steps of the late Rushwaya.
“To the family of our departed colleague, we pray that you get strength from the Lord during this difficult time. The Lord gives and takes His flowers.
“To the late doyen of modern sports journalism, we say . . . Simba, go well till we meet again,” added Dynamos.
ZIFA also expressed its sympathies with the Rushwaya family.
“It is with deep sadness that the Zimbabwe Football Association has learned of the passing of Simba Rushwaya.
“Mr. Rushwaya was not only a professional of the highest calibre but also a highly respected figure across various media houses,” ZIFA said.
“His dedication to sports journalism was unparalleled, and his distinguished career stands as a testament to his passion and commitment to the field.
“As a former Secretary-General of the Sports Writers’ Association of Zimbabwe, Mr Rushwaya’s leadership and vision greatly contributed to the development of sports journalism in the country.
“His loss is not only a personal one to those who knew him but also a significant one for the entire industry. During this difficult time, our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues.
“We extend our deepest condolences and hope they find comfort in the lasting legacy he has left behind,” ZIFA said.
Online Reporter