Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga, Zimpapers Sports Hub
WITH a strong Bulawayo presence in the squad, Zimbabwe’s top young swimmers are gearing up for a defining test at the Africa Aquatics Zone IV Championships in Manzini, Eswatini this September.
National coach Masi Takaedza believes the regional meet, set for September 3 to 7, is more than just a medal hunt, it’s a springboard for growth.
“This competition isn’t just about podium finishes,” said Takaedza. “It’s a stepping stone. It gives our swimmers a chance to experience international racing and see how they stack up against the region’s best.”
The Zone IV Championships draw competitors from across southern and eastern Africa, including heavyweights like South Africa and Angola. For Zimbabwe, it’s a vital platform to expose both seasoned campaigners and newcomers to top-level competition.
Takaedza will lead a team packed with talent, including several swimmers with past Zone IV experience such as Alexis Johnsen, Loyiso Mahobele, Sibusiso Fayayo, Tafadzwa Chandiwana, Farai Matabeya, Ashley Berejena and Joshuah Siwela.
“We’ve got a balanced squad, some emerging stars, others with experience,” he said. “They’ve all been consistent during the local season and have earned this chance. But we face some winter training challenges, especially with access to heated pools.”
Takaedza said preparation is now in full swing, with coaches pushing for as much pool time as possible before the September departure.
“We’re focused on training volume and quality. Some of the selected swimmers have been dropping their times, showing real composure under pressure,” he said. “So we’re aiming not just for medals, but for personal bests and national records too.”
Bulawayo, long regarded as one of the country’s swimming strongholds, has contributed several names to the national team. Swimmers like Michelle Nkolomi, Monalisa Sibanda, Marang Ndlovu, and Ashley Berejena will be hoping to make waves in Eswatini, adding to the city’s proud tradition in the pool.
“It’s a busy season for our swimmers,” added Takaedza. “Some will head straight into the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games in Namibia, then the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, and later the World Junior Champs. It’s a packed schedule, but a rewarding one.”
Zimbabwe Team for Africa Aquatics Zone IV Championships
Females: Ruth Nhimura, Michelle Nkolomi, Shae Green, Marang Ndlovu, Monalisa Sibanda, Tamiranashe Maboreke, Daniella Viki, Tassia Kaschula, Farai Matabeya, Eliecia Chivandire, Alexis Johnsen, Imlah Nyamhunga, Amelie Mtongwiza, Ruvarashe Choto, Adriana Bhana, Tafadzwa Chandiwana, Tanatswa Chandiwana, Loyiso Mahobele.
Males: Vincent Nyamapfene, Jude Moss, Nkonzo Mkwananzi, Wade Cameroon, Gabriel Munengwa, Bohan Guo, Sibusiso Fayayo, John Goddard, Tendekayi Maboreke, Connor Grist, Joshah Siwela, Shingai Shumba, Teak Watson, Adrian Chidzvete, Liam Chickson, Ashley Berejena.
Technical Team:
Head Coach – Masi Takaedza
Coach – Leigh Anne Young
Senior Manager – Sothini Ngwenya
Manager – Mike Roper
