Online Reporter
Tadious Manyepo
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Government yesterday rolled out the red carpet for powerhouse Chido Maenzanise, who recently left the entire continent in awe after clinching the Africa’s Strongest Woman title.
Maenzanise’s impressive performance in South Africa last week was a masterclass in strength and endurance, illuminating the stage and bringing home the coveted prize.
And she was feted in Harare by the acting Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Tino Machakaire, who praised her landmark achievement.
“This is not just your triumph, it’s a victory for Zimbabwe,” Machakaire said.
“You’ve put us on the map, and your determination, discipline and faith have carried our flag with pride. You’ve shown the world that Zimbabwean athletes can compete and win on any stage.”
Machakaire hailed Maenzanise as a beacon of inspiration for women and young people across the country and a shining example of what the sports sector can produce when talent meets opportunity and hard work.
The minister revealed that Sports, Arts and Recreation Minister Anselem Sanyatwe had met with Maenzanise before she began her journey to the Africa title and it was fitting that they meet again now that she has conquered Africa and is set to take on the world.
“We’re immensely proud of you, and your achievement gives renewed energy to our national vision to see Zimbabwe’s athletes excel globally,” Machakaire said.
Maenzanise, who is now ranked 21st strongest woman in the world, is gearing up for the World’s Strongest Woman showdown in the US.
She acknowledged that the continental competition was far from a cakewalk.
“It was the toughest competition I’ve ever been in,” she said.
“I was up against tough opponents from Ghana and South Africa, and it was intense. But I managed to pull ahead and win the title, which takes my medal tally to 28.”
With her sights set on the global championship, Maenzanise said she’s going back to the drawing board to fine-tune her skills.
“I’m pumped up for the world championship, and I’m determined to make my country proud,” she added. Machakaire urged Maenzanise to continue guiding young men and women in Zimbabwe, saying her success showed that collaboration, focus, and consistency can lead to achievement. “You have already made us proud.
“We have a lot of young men and women who use their strength for all the wrong reasons,” he said.
“We are trying to fight the drug and substance abuse scourge and this sport can also come in handy.
“Now Chido, go and show the world what Zimbabwe’s strength looks like.”
