President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday recognised three of Zimbabwe’s top sports captains for their recent achievements, presenting them with vehicles during a ceremony at State House.
Dynamos captain, Emmanuel Jalai, was gifted with a brand-new Ford Ranger in recognition of his leadership in guiding the Glamour Boys to a historic third consecutive Chibuku Super Cup title. Women’s football standout, Tabeth Mutinhiri, was awarded a vehicle after captaining Herentals Queens to a fourth successive Women’s Premier Soccer League championship, further cementing the club’s dominance in the women’s game. While national cricket team captain, Sikandar Raza, who was represented at the ceremony, was also honoured for leading the Chevrons to qualification for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.
This gesture follows a similar recognition last week for Walter Musona, captain of Scottland, who received a vehicle after guiding his team to a podium finish in their debut Premier Soccer League season.
Athletes welcomed the President’s gesture, noting that it underscores sport as a respected profession in Zimbabwe. Herentals Queens president, Innocent Benza said, “To see sportspersons recognised at the highest level is a huge and unique gesture.”
This is not the first time President Mnangagwa has celebrated sporting excellence. Previous honours include hosting the Sables rugby team after their Rugby Africa Cup performances and awarding boxer Kuda Chiwandire for her regional title triumphs.
Sports analysts observed that such recognition reflects a growing effort to elevate Zimbabwe’s sporting profile. They noted that consistent acknowledgement of athletic success demonstrates a deliberate strategy by the state to boost national pride, motivate athletes, and promote sport as a key pillar of society.
The recognition also resonated with supporters, many of whom took to social media to praise the captains’ dedication and the Government’s visible support for local talent.
