Bongani Ndlovu
Zimpapers Reporter
COMMUNITY football club Mexi Mawaya received a major boost on Saturday after Balmex Organisation founder and director Gary Goddard donated a full football kit to the Sizinda-based side during a colourful ceremony held at Sizinda South Beer Garden in Bulawayo.
The event brought together football enthusiasts, community leaders, former players and supporters who gathered to celebrate a club that has remained a pillar of community sport in one of Bulawayo’s oldest high-density suburbs.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Mexi Mawaya president Vusa Ncube reflected on the club’s history and thanked everyone who has continued to support the team over the years.
Ncube said Mexi Mawaya was founded through the collective efforts of dedicated community members and has remained a symbol of unity and development in Sizinda. He paid tribute to those who have contributed to the club’s growth, including Innocent Dube, who was present when the team was formed and now serves as the club’s patron, helping to preserve its heritage and guide younger generations.
He also acknowledged the contributions of Spoke, who assists with transportation and logistical support, while General Thembumenzi, who also serves as assistant coach, was commended for helping organise the successful event alongside head coach Mzaya. Ncube further recognised the efforts of Past Seven, Tobias Gudza and other community members who continue to stand behind the club.
In an emotional moment, Ncube requested a minute of silence in honour of Jodge Waya, one of the individuals associated with the club’s history.
The donation ceremony was expertly steered by master of ceremonies Carlos “The Big C”.
The highlight of the day was the address by Gary Goddard, whose donation was warmly received by players and supporters.
Goddard said the gesture was inspired by his deep connection to Sizinda and his admiration for the longevity of Mexi Mawaya.
“First, I would like to thank the community for accepting our gift as a way of giving back to the community. I am a child who was born in Sizinda and attended Maphisa Primary School. Mexi Mawaya is a team I started watching while I was still in primary school. Today I am a father and the name Mexi Mawaya is still standing.”
He noted that many of the players and founders who helped establish the team are no longer alive, but the club’s continued existence is testimony to the spirit of unity and love within the community.
“That is what motivated me to buy this kit because I have seen the future for Mexi Mawaya. Our children are going to carry the same legacy,” he said.
Goddard described Mexi Mawaya as more than just a football club.
“Mexi Mawaya is not just a club but a family. It unites people within the community and gives them an opportunity to interact and support one another,” he said.
He also highlighted the important role sport plays in keeping young people away from social ills.
“I am grateful to see young men playing for Mexi Mawaya. Football keeps them busy and helps reduce the rate of drug abuse because it keeps the youth occupied. They need more support from the community,” he added.
The donation was received with excitement by players and supporters, who said the new kit would give the team renewed motivation ahead of future competitions.
Online Reporter