Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
AT some stage in his career Masimba Mambare had been dismissed as a spent force.
Recurrent injuries did not seem to aid his cause either.
But the talented midfielder has re-invented himself and after starring for Kwekwe United in the opening half of the season, he has trekked back to Bikita Minerals.
Mambare, who also played for traditional giants Highlanders and Dynamos, is one of Bikita Minerals’ mid-season acquisitions.
He left the Lithium Boys at the height of financial problems at the club and had been lured to Kwekwe United by coach Saul Chaminuka.
With the experience also gained from his four-year stint with the now defunct Motor Action, which ended in 2012, Mambare has shown the capacity to compete at the highest level and both Bikita Minerals coach Wison Mutekede and the club’s management believe, they need players of the midfielder’s pedigree to swim to safety.
Bikita Minerals are among a group of teams still to guarantee their Premiership safety.
“Football is about belief, and we saw something special in Masimba,” said Bikita Minerals chairman Mike Mushava.
“Many wrote him off, but we knew his experience and skill could make a difference. He didn’t just meet our expectations, he exceeded them.”
Indeed, Mambare’s contributions in 2024 were pivotal in securing the team’s survival in a season where they were widely tipped for the drop.
His composure, leadership and performances won over fans and reignited discussions about his place among the most resilient footballers.
However, in a twist Mambare opted for a new challenge at the end of the 2024 campaign, signing with newly-promoted Kwekwe United.
His departure didn’t bring the expected results as he met several challenges in Kwekwe colours.
Apart from the 37-year-old Mambare, former ZIFA technical director Mutekede has also added the services of Kimberley Manyika (19), Shelton Moyo (18), Philip Makhele (22) and Keith Mathe (23).
With the bulk of the Bikita additions being young players, Mutekede and Mushava will be hoping that Mambare will provide the on-field leadership as the Lithium Boys fight for their survival.
Bikita Minerals are currently in 11th position with 28 points.
“We are excited about the new talent joining our squad. Our strategy is to create a balanced team with a mix of youth and experience.
