From Zimpapers to SA’s finest

Zimpapers Sports Hub

MTHOKOZISI Dube, a former Sunday News sports reporter, has been crowned the Written Journalist of the Year and Overall Journalist of the Year at the prestigious South African Football Journalists’ Association (Safja) awards.

The double triumph cements Zimpapers trained star reporter’s reputation as one of the sharpest voices in African football journalism.

Now Editor-in-Chief at FARPost, the prolific writer described the recognition as both humbling and a tribute to his support system.

“Humbled to be named the Safja Journalist of the Year and Written Journalist of the Year. Truly humbling. These accolades belong to the amazing team at FARPost and my incredibly supportive wife,” he said.

His colleagues and peers across the region were quick to celebrate his journey. Phathisani Moyo, his former Sports Editor at Sunday News who also worked alongside Dube in South Africa, hailed him as a shining example of consistency and professionalism.

“I have had the privilege to work with Mtho for many years. He has always let his work do the talking and this recognition is truly deserved,” Moyo said.

Long-time friend and Dubai-based journalist Wenyasha Chingono also reflected on Dube’s remarkable rise.

“I remember over a decade ago, you packed your bags and got on a bus to pursue your passion in SA after conquering Botswana. From breaking stories from your house in Tlokweng to becoming Editor in Chief of FARPost, your journey has been nothing but inspirational. You’re not just a sharp news breaker, but you weave words into beautiful tapestries. Here’s to more gongs and hard-hitting copy,” Chingono said.

The awards come as SAFJA and Hollywoodbets announced the extension of their partnership until 2026, continuing their mission to honour excellence both on the pitch and in the newsroom.

For Dube, who cut his teeth at Zimpapers in Bulawayo in 2006 before building a pan-African career, the double award is not just personal recognition, but also a milestone that underscores the potential of Zimbabwean talent on the global stage.