Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports Hub
MAPHISA is buzzing. The Matobo District centre in Matabeleland South has been chosen to host Zimbabwe’s 2026 Independence celebrations, and the news is already sparking bold football ambitions.
Matobo FC believe the event will leave a permanent mark on their community and help build a legacy that outlives the day’s festivities.
After this year’s national celebrations in Gokwe’s Nembudziya, Government announced Matabeleland South as the next host. The later confirmation of Maphisa as the actual venue set off more excitement, especially in a district rich in football heritage. It is home to legendary Highlanders benefactors the late Tafi Moyo and Joseph Mtshumayeli, present Highlanders board members Cosmas Sikhosana, Matthew Sibindi and Peter Dube, junior development guru Ali Dube, and former Bosso players Mbongeni Ndlovu, Bekithemba Ndlovu and Fazo Ndlovu.
Matobo FC chairperson Mthokozisi Nyathi said during a kit handover at a drug and substance abuse and gender-based violence awareness tournament on Wednesday that the prospect of a proper stadium is thrilling.
“With a stadium here in Maphisa, our place will be uplifted. As Matobo FC we will soar,” said Nyathi.
He noted that the team currently uses three makeshift pitches that fall short of Division Two standards, let alone the Central Region Division One league they compete in.
Nyathi said they have always wished for a facility capable of attracting crowd pulling giants like Highlanders and Dynamos. Their long-term dream is to reach the Premier Soccer League, and a new stadium would bring that target closer.
“Matobo FC is a team that has been around. It started as Amazon playing at Legion Mine in Division Two. We were promoted to Division One, our aim is to play in the Premier Soccer League. We want a home ground that can attract Highlanders and Dynamos,” he said.
He recalled that Matobo FC recently played a Central Region fixture at Gokwe North, on the very pitch that hosted this year’s Independence celebrations.
Nyathi believes the national event will transform local football. Youngsters will get to watch a major match live, and the anticipated infrastructure will benefit the club for years.
“Hosting the Independence Cup final here should leave a lasting football legacy,” he said.
Wherever the main celebrations have been held, roads, stadiums and opportunities have been built ahead of the events. Matobo FC are convinced that Maphisa will enjoy the same boost, turning national pride into a platform for sporting growth.
Bongani Moyo