Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Sibanda, [email protected]
BULAWAYO’S famed Emakhandeni Tennis Courts have once again produced talent for the international stage after Zamani Moyo and Makanaka Whata were named in Zimbabwe’s squad for the Davis Cup Africa Group IV tournament set for Nairobi, Kenya, from June 15 to 20.
The selection of the two youngsters is being celebrated as a major victory not only for Bulawayo tennis but also for grassroots sport, with both players having developed their game on the community courts in Emakhandeni suburb.
United States based Moyo, one of the country’s brightest tennis prospects, was nurtured under coaches Thabo Khumalo and Witness Jiyane, while Whata’s development was guided by veteran coach Michael Mlambo under the Tomasik Foundation.
Their inclusion in the national team is a testament to years of dedication, sacrifice and perseverance in a sport that often demands significant financial resources.
For Moyo, the Davis Cup call-up is the latest reward for a journey that began on the modest courts of Emakhandeni. Known for his composure and competitive spirit, he has steadily progressed through the junior ranks and established himself among Zimbabwe’s most promising young players.
Whata’s story is equally inspiring. The hardworking youngster has impressed coaches and tennis followers with his determination and commitment, attributes that have now earned him a place in the country’s most prestigious team competition.
Zimbabwe will be led by captain Gwinyai Tongoona, with experienced player Courtney Lock and fellow rising star Ronan Mtisi also part of the squad.
Speaking after Moyo’s selection, coach Jiyane described the achievement as a proud moment for the Emakhandeni Tennis Club.
“As a club, we are happy about his achievement. He is a talented and dedicated player who is capable of playing professional tennis,” said Jiyane.
“We cannot stop celebrating. Imagine a player from the ghetto, training on dilapidated tennis courts without financial sponsorship, yet he remained focused on his dream. His selection shows that talent, discipline and determination can overcome many challenges. We wish Team Zimbabwe all the best in Nairobi.”
Jiyane said Moyo’s success should inspire young players from high-density suburbs to believe in their abilities despite the obstacles they may face.
Coach Mlambo, who worked closely with Whata during his formative years, said the player’s national team selection was well deserved.
“Makanaka has always been a disciplined and hardworking player. From a young age, he showed a willingness to learn and improve. What has taken him this far is his commitment to the sport and his positive attitude,” said Ngwenya.
“As coaches, we are proud to see him reach this level because we know the amount of work he has put in over the years. His selection is not only a personal achievement but also recognition of the work being done at grassroots level in Bulawayo.”
Mlambo said having two players from Emakhandeni represented in the national team was a source of pride for the entire tennis community in the city.
The duo’s rise highlights the important role community-based facilities continue to play in nurturing talent despite limited resources. Their success is expected to provide motivation to aspiring players training on the same courts where their journeys began.
As Zimbabwe prepares for the Davis Cup challenge in Nairobi, Bulawayo will be watching with pride, hoping that Moyo and Whata can help the country make a strong impression while inspiring the next generation of tennis stars from Emakhandeni and beyond.
