Sundaymail Editor
Collen De Jong
AARON JANI was a beloved son, devoted father and husband, cherished family man, loyal friend and colleague.
It is with deep sadness that we note the passing on of a man who touched many lives in various ways.
In his lifetime, Jani not only enriched the lives of his family and friends, but he also served Zimbabwe rugby and played an instrumental role in its success. He was an astute businessman, who managed his affairs with integrity and honour.
He was a proud father of four beautiful children, all of whom inherited his athletic spirit, dedication to their studies and love of family.
Jani was more than just a rugby player.
After school, his father insisted he got into a trade and he spent time underground in the mines of Middleburg to obtain a mining certificate that stood him in good stead to achieve success with EFE Mining Supplies and Chemicals, as well as EFE Securities.
His time working in the mines is testament to his innate focus, bravery and dedication to everything he undertook in life.
Jani was a cornerstone of Zimbabwe rugby; beginning his career on the field as a speedy winger, who played the game with spirit and dedication to his team.
He played for Old Miltonians in Bulawayo from 1993 to 2003, donned the national team jersey 30 times with the Sables from 1993 until his retirement from the sport in 2003.
He was always physically active and spent many hours running even when undergoing chemotherapy. Jani was chairperson of the Sables U20 franchise from 2004 to 2009, paving the way for development of the national XV’s; this team participated in the World Rugby Junior World Cup in 2007, having won the Africa Cup in 2006. This was at the time when it was a 24- team tournament, and Zimbabwe achieved 16th position in the world.
The Zimbabwe Under-20s had further wins in 2009, 2010 and 2011, qualifying to participate in the Under-20 Junior World Trophy hosted in Russia, Georgia and the United States, respectively. In 2010, Jani was elected vice president of the Zimbabwe Rugby Union and became president in 2017, a post he held until 2022.
He was elected to the Board of Rugby Africa in 2019 and became treasurer in 2023, a post he held until his death. Jani was respected by his colleagues in Rugby Africa and was instrumental in raising accountability and governance standards in the organisation.
Under his leadership, his commitment to the game was evidenced by the national team’s participation at the Sevens’ World Cup in 2018 and 2022. The national men’s and women’s XV’s participated annually in the Africa Cup and the foundation stones have been set for the Sables to qualify for the World Cup in 2027.
The national Junior Sables won the Africa Cup on two consecutive occasions during his tenure. Jani actively championed women’s rugby; at one time even employing the national team captain at EFE. He, together with his business partner Edwin Gumbo, sponsored clubs from disadvantaged areas, some of whom still wear the EFE playing kit. He also paid school fees for young people and always managed to ensure he assisted potential rugby players financially.
Jani was more than a player; he was a leader and successful businessman. He lived his life to the full and was a man of few words, with a quiet sense of humour. He loved to laugh and thought very deeply about all things.
His intellect, bravery and integrity remain a legacy and example to us all. Jani will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
May he rest in peace.
Online Reporter