Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba
THE mining town of Shurugwi, famed for yesteryear football teams like Zimasco, Nichrut, athletics and track cycling, now has a team playing in the Central Soccer Region League following the promotion of Shurugwi FC last weekend.
Shurugwi topped the Midlands Division Two A League and automatically earned the ticket to Division One.
There was another reason to celebrate at the end of the match when Zifa executive member Brighton “Panjap” Ushendibaba, who is a Simba Bhora director, gave the club US$2000 at Makusha Grounds.
Ushendibaba’s presence underlined his commitment to supporting football development in the country.
The businessman and football enthusiast gave the team two sets of football uniforms and donated a set to Chiponjeka FC, another Division Two team.
The Zifa board member with a focus on grassroots development, women’s empowerment and infrastructure improvement, pledged to rehabilitate Makusha Grounds.
“My aim or goal is to develop football from primary school level up to the last level, ensuring that young players have access to proper training and facilities,” he said.
“As an advocate for equal opportunities and salaries for female players, promoting women’s participation in football, I plan to leverage my business connections to develop stadia, football infrastructure as well as providing better facilities for players and fans.”
The Shurugwi community was grateful for the gesture from Ushendibaba.
“We are very grateful for his passion for football and commitment to giving back to the community. He donated two soccer kits, US$2,000 and promised to renovate the toilets and changing rooms, a development that will undoubtedly go a long way in boosting the team’s performance and overall experience,” said Member of Parliament for Shurugwi, Joseph Mupasu.
Shurugwi FC finished the season with 60 points.
The community-based club edged out second-placed Hwahwa FC, who ended the season with 55 points.
Shurugwi FC played a total of 28 matches, winning 18, drawing 6, and losing only 4 — a remarkable record that sealed their well-deserved promotion.
The team’s consistent performance throughout the season has brought excitement and pride to the Shurugwi community, which has passionately supported the club.
