Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE province of Matabeleland South is basking in pride and celebration following the remarkable achievements of South Africa-based Zimbabwean boxing sensation, Monica Mkandla.
Mkandla, whose rise in the sport has been nothing short of meteoric, was recently named the Outstanding Professional Female Boxer of the Year at the prestigious Annual National Sports Awards (Ansa) held in Harare. This accolade further cements her status as one of Zimbabwe’s finest boxing exports.
Her crowning moment at Ansa follows an already impressive career trajectory that saw her clinch the World Boxing Association (WBA) Pan Africa Bantamweight Championship last year, defeating Tanzania’s Egine Kayange. That victory added another title to her growing collection, solidifying her reputation as a formidable force in the boxing ring.
Since turning professional in August 2022, Mkandla has maintained an immaculate record, racking up six consecutive wins. Her dominance has seen her triumph over notable opponents such as Pamela Mutanga, Nomsa Ngema and Mitchell Mubaya.
Matabeleland South provincial boxing board co-ordinator, Maculwamahle Nkomo, could not hide her admiration and joy for Mkandla’s achievements, hailing her as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes in the province and beyond.
“I am overwhelmed with pride and joy as I congratulate our female professional boxer, Monica Mkandla, on her outstanding achievement — winning the national award for Outstanding Professional Female Boxer of the Year. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to her hard work, perseverance and dedication. It’s a proud moment, not just for her or Matabeleland South, but for our entire region,” said Nkomo.
She added that Mkandla’s success is not just a personal milestone but a powerful symbol of the potential that female athletes in Zimbabwe possess.
“As Provincial Co-ordinator, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing her career growth and development. She is an exceptional athlete and I’m thrilled to see her hard work paying off in such a magnificent way. This award is a shining example of the deep, rich talent in our province, especially among young girls. It highlights the greatness our athletes can achieve if given the right opportunities, support and resources. It’s also a powerful reminder that with determination and hard work, anything is possible,” she said.
Nkomo also extended her appreciation to the support system behind Mkandla’s success, including her family, manager Collen McAusland, trainer Jack Khangelani and the entire McAusland family.
“This award is not just a victory for Monica, but for our entire region. It reflects how far our athletes can go if we commit to promoting and supporting women’s sports. It’s unfortunate that we couldn’t host our Women’s Boxing Tournament during Women’s Month due to a lack of sponsorship. I challenge corporate entities and investors to support our sport as doing that will go a long way in nurturing talented athletes like Monica,” she said.
While the province celebrates Mkandla’s triumph, the boxing fraternity also finds itself in mourning following the passing of Farai “Fimbo” Taruvinga, the late Insiza North legislator. Taruvinga, who died at the age of 54 after a long battle with cancer, was a staunch supporter of boxing in Matabeleland South.
Nkomo paid tribute to Taruvinga’s contributions, particularly his efforts in developing boxing in Insiza District.
“Taruvinga was instrumental in organising coaching and training sessions for local boxing coaches, ensuring that Insiza had the highest number of trained coaches and referees in the region,” she said.
In honour of Taruvinga’s legacy, Nkomo expressed her hope to one day organise a boxing tournament in his memory.
As Matabeleland South revels in the success of one of its own, the hope remains that Mkandla’s achievements will inspire the next generation of female boxers to step into the ring with confidence, knowing that greatness is within their reach.
