Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
MAWABENI FC chairman Mpumelelo “Mbesuma” Nkomazana (pictured) has spoken for the first time since moving the club to the Zifa Bulawayo Division Two League.
The Mawabeni-based outfit has officially joined the Bulawayo provincial structures for the 2026 season, a development that will bring competitive Division Two football closer to home for supporters in the rural district.
Nkomazana said the move marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the club.
“We are happy to bring Zifa Bulawayo Province Division Two action to Matabeleland South Province. It’s something we have been working towards, and we are proud that our community will now watch competitive football right here in Mawabeni,” he said.
Under league regulations, fixtures must fall within a 40km radius, but Mawabeni Grounds are situated approximately 58km from Bulawayo. As a result, the club will shoulder additional transport costs for visiting teams.
Nkomazana, however, said the club is ready for the financial undertaking.
“We have done our budgets for that and we are looking forward to playing in the league,” he added.
Nkomazana said the move represents more than football alone; it is an investment in community growth and opportunity.
“This is bigger than Mawabeni FC. It is about giving our young players exposure and giving our supporters something to rally behind every weekend. We want to build a competitive team that represents Matabeleland South with pride in the Zifa Bulawayo Province league. This is our chance to show that talent from Mawabeni can compete at a higher level,” he said.
The move is expected to strengthen football ties between Bulawayo and Mawabeni, while offering supporters in the Umzingwane District a rare opportunity to enjoy structured provincial league action on their doorstep.
Previously, the team competed in the Matabeleland South Division Two League, facing teams from as far as rural Gwanda and Beitbridge.
