Zvimbvatu takes over darts board

Lovemore Dube, [email protected]

COLLEN Zvimbvatu was elected chairman of the Bulawayo Metropolitan Darts Association at the weekend, stepping into the role after a tightly watched vote that closed the chapter on Ian Nyathi’s tenure.

Nyathi, an award winning darts player, who led the association through a period of modest growth and steady results, formally handed over at the meeting and urged the new executive to move quickly. He said preparation for the new season could not wait and challenged the incoming leadership to turn visibility into progress.

“Bulawayo is our home and we remain part of this darts family,” Nyathi said. “Let’s work together to develop the sport. Even if we are away from the province at times, we are with you in everything you do.

To the outgoing executive, thank you for the time we worked together and the accolades we won. Let’s start preparing for the season and the competitions that come with it. Your energy and zeal will steer the ship where it needs to go.”

Zvimbvatu arrives at the top job after serving as organising secretary, a role in which he built a reputation for staging memorable tournaments, including events of national standing that lifted Bulawayo’s profile on the darts calendar. He will be deputised by Wisewaters Darts Club star Rwatirinda Mahembe of Queens Park West.

Wayne Mandhlazi was elected secretary general, with Seth Chirenje taking over as treasurer in a reshaped executive that blends experience with new voices. Trust Ncube replaces Zvimbvatu as organising secretary, inheriting a demanding portfolio after his predecessor’s hands on approach set a high bar.

Former Matabeleland darts star and Zimbabwe international Jackson Ndimande was appointed public relations officer, bringing a familiar face and institutional memory to a role focused on rebuilding public interest. The new committee also includes Women’s Darts Player of the Year Nomvelo Ncube, alongside Thomas Mlambo and Keenwell Zhou, after clubs voted to ensure female representation.

Zvimbvatu said the association’s most pressing problem was apathy, revealed starkly by the presence of just 11 active clubs in the metropolitan area. He acknowledged mistakes made by the previous executive, of which he was part, and said the new leadership could not pretend those lessons did not exist.

“There is passive resistance at times that blocks growth,” Zvimbvatu said. “I was part of the previous executive, so my responsibility is to do better. We must be honest about where we fell short and fix it because there is room for darts to grow.”

He said the executive would review standard operating procedures, mobilise participants and resources, and tighten accountability, particularly where public funds are involved. Zvimbvatu added that partnerships with brands were essential if the sport was to regain visibility and become viable again on a crowded sporting landscape.