Online Reporter
Daniel Chigunwe
Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe’s darts fraternity has ushered in a new era following the election of a new executive board for the National Darts Association of Zimbabwe (NDAZ), headed by president Rodwell Chidanhamabwe.
Speaking after his election, Chidanhamabwe expressed gratitude for the confidence shown in him by players, officials and stakeholders across the country, describing his appointment as both an honour and a responsibility.
“I am truly humbled by the overwhelming support. I promise to work tirelessly to take Zimbabwe darts to new heights,” he said.
The new leadership takes over at a time when the sport is seeking renewed relevance and structure, particularly in aligning with global standards.
Chidanhamabwe paid tribute to the outgoing executive, acknowledging their role in laying a solid foundation upon which his administration intends to build.
At the core of the new board’s vision is a strategic transformation agenda anchored on sustainability, visibility and grassroots development.
He emphasised the need to secure financial stability through partnerships and sponsorships, a critical component in elevating the sport’s competitiveness.
“We will drive financial sustainability through partnerships and sponsorship. We will promote the sport through media and marketing, ensuring our talent gets the recognition it deserves,” he said.
A key structural reform, he said, will be the introduction of a national ranking system aimed at enhancing fairness and competitiveness across all levels of play.
This, he added is expected to bring transparency and consistency in player progression and tournament selection.
Equally significant is the new executive’s plans to focus on grassroots development, with the association targeting youth participation in communities as a pipeline for future talent.
The initiative seeks to embed darts within local sporting culture while broadening its national footprint.
“We will develop grassroots structures targeting youth and support our top players and teams on the global stage,” Chidanhamabwe added.
The new executive is a blend of experience and regional representation, reflecting the nationwide scope of the sport.
Chidanhamabwe called for unity within the darts community, urging stakeholders to rally behind the new vision.
“Let’s work together with teamwork, love and unity to transform Zimbabwe darts into a premier sport,” he said.
With a clear strategic direction and renewed leadership energy, the NDAZ now faces the task of translating its vision into tangible results, reviving local competitions, nurturing talent and positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive force on the international darts stage.
Chidanhamabwe is deputised by Collin Zvimbvatu (Bulawayo Province) while Debrahim Michael Shumba (Mashonaland West) is the secretary general, Ernest L Zhanda (Mashonaland East) is the treasurer general, Lethukuthula Nkomo (Bulawayo Province) organising secretary, Norman Matara (Mashonaland West) is the public relations officer and Chipo Nyasha (Manicaland Province) and Ivy Kwenda (Matabeleland South) are committee members.
