By Heather Buzuzi
MUTARE – Local boxer John Andrew was crowned Trabablas National Champion after defeating Alick Mbemba in a tightly contested bout during a boxing tournament held in Mutare over the weekend.
Andrew, who was born and raised in Chikanga, Mutare, said the fight tested his strength and determination.
“The competition was very tough, but I am happy I pulled through,” he said after the victory.
The tournament also saw Zambia’s Elizabeth Phiri, popularly known as “The Virtuous Woman” from Manyuchi Boxing Academy, clinch the Women Boxing International Federation Super Flyweight title after overcoming Sakina Ibrahim.
Phiri described the victory as an important achievement in her boxing career and encouraged her opponent not to lose hope.
“I am happy with the win. Ibrahim must keep on trying, but virtuous is always virtuous,” she said.
The event drew senior government officials, boxing promoters and sports supporters, highlighting the growing profile of boxing in Mutare.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Misheck Mugadza praised the development of boxing in the province and credited former boxer Charles Manyuchi for helping transform the local sporting scene.
“It is my honour to witness such great moments on these grounds for the first time. This place is now different thanks to Mr Manyuchi,” said Mugadza.
The minister also used the platform to urge youths to avoid drug and substance abuse and instead pursue sporting opportunities.
“To the youth, say no to drugs. You can be the future through sport,” he said.
Mutare City Town Clerk Mr Blessing Chafesuka congratulated all participating athletes and called on young people in the city to take inspiration from the achievements recorded during the tournament.
He particularly applauded women’s boxing, saying Elizabeth Phiri’s success showed that the sport continues to open opportunities for female athletes in the region.
Chafesuka said he hoped future tournaments would see more local talent dominating the ring.
“Next time, I will be happy to see boxers from Mutare fighting and winning,” he said.
He also revealed that Mutare City Council plans to establish a boxing academy following the acquisition of a boxing ring, a move expected to strengthen boxing development in the city.
“We now have the boxing ring, and as council we want to have a boxing academy to nurture talent,” said Chafesuka.
The tournament is expected to boost boxing development in Mutare, where local authorities and sports stakeholders are increasingly promoting sport as a tool for youth empowerment and crime prevention.