Countdown to November 22 Begins with a Visit to Chief Mutasa’s Court

As the countdown to the NetOne Albun Honde Valley Marathon 2025 continues, preparations are shifting into high gear, not just on the race routes, but within the heart of the community that hosts this iconic event.

Earlier this week, the NetOne team, led by Group Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, paid a courtesy visit to Chief Mutasa’s court in Honde Valley. The engagement formed part of the organisation’s ongoing efforts to deepen community partnerships ahead of the marathon, which takes place on 22 November 2025 in the scenic Eastern Highlands.

The visit symbolised more than a formal courtesy call, it was a reaffirmation of NetOne’s commitment to inclusive development, cultural respect, and social responsibility in one of Zimbabwe’s most picturesque, yet often underserved regions.

Chief Mutasa, a respected traditional leader renowned for his wisdom and community-driven leadership, expressed profound appreciation for NetOne’s continued investment in the area.

“Communities are built by a simple thought of giving back to the less privileged,” said Chief Mutasa. “We thank NetOne for not only bringing a world-class marathon to our district, but also for touching lives and empowering our people in the process.”

Engineer Mushanawani echoed these sentiments, noting that the Honde Valley Marathon has become more than a sporting event, it is now a vehicle for social impact, tourism promotion, and local pride.

“As NetOne, we believe in connecting communities, not only through technology, but through initiatives that inspire growth, wellness, and unity,” said Eng. Mushanawani. “The Honde Valley Marathon represents the true spirit of Ubuntu, where sport and community come together to create lasting change.”

The NetOne delegation also included Acting Head of Public Relations, Mr. Tatenda Makumborenga, and Regional Manager, Mr. W. Mazanhi, among other senior officials. The team took time to engage with local representatives and discuss ongoing preparations for race day, including logistics, community participation, and environmental sustainability initiatives.

Now in its third edition, the NetOne Albun Honde Valley Marathon continues to grow as a flagship event that blends athletic excellence with community empowerment. The 2025 race, which features the 42km full marathon, 21km BreeZ Half Marathon, 10km, and 5km fun run, is expected to attract hundreds of runners from across Zimbabwe and beyond.

Beyond the competition, the marathon highlights the beauty, culture, and potential of Honde Valley, a destination fast emerging as a hub for sports tourism and wellness. The introduction of initiatives such as the Nyaradzo Camping Village and the renaming of the 21km race in memory of Brenda “BreeZ” Zvinorova underscore the event’s focus on community, legacy, and shared values.

With just weeks to go before race day, anticipation is building across the nation. The scenic hills of Honde Valley are set to come alive once more, not just with the sound of running shoes on the tarmac, but with the spirit of unity, giving back, and celebration that defines the NetOne brand.

Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League Champions, Simba Bhora are set to find out who they’ll face in the 2025/26 CAF Champions League when the draw takes place this Saturday.

The event will be held at the Azam Media studios in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, starting at 12 noon CAT. Fans can follow the proceedings live on CAF’s official YouTube channel and SuperSport TV.

This marks Simba’s maiden appearance in Africa’s premier club competition, having secured their spot by winning the 2024 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.

The Shamva outfit will enter the tournament at the preliminary round stage, which kicks off on 19 September 2025. The second preliminary round will follow on 17 October.

Group stage action for both the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup begins on 21 November 2025, with knockout fixtures starting from 13 March 2026.

The draw will also include the CAF Confederation Cup, although Zimbabwe will not have a team participating after Dynamos, winners of the 2024 Chibuku Super Cup, pulled out due to financial difficulties.

The stage is set for the grand finale of the Carling Black Label National Pool Championship, which will take place this Saturday, 9 August, at Hall 1 of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) grounds in Bulawayo.

After months of intense competition that began on 31 May with 31 regional qualifiers across the country, the national finals will bring together 148 top contenders—74 men and 74 women—vying for glory in their respective categories. The event marks the culmination of Zimbabwe’s premier pool tournament, celebrated for its competitive spirit and nationwide reach.

What’s at Stake

The championship offers substantial prizes, with the winners in both categories walking away with:

• 1st Place: USD 2,500 and a pool table
• 2nd Place: USD 1,500
• 3rd Place: USD 1,000
• 4th Place: USD 500

The tournament not only rewards excellence but also celebrates the dedication and passion of players from all corners of Zimbabwe. Spectators can expect a day filled with thrilling matches, nail-biting finishes, and displays of elite-level skill.

Entertainment Line-Up

Adding to the excitement, the event will feature live performances and DJ sets throughout the day. Bulawayo’s own DJ Tino, DJ Mateu, and DJ Papito will keep the energy high, while The Travellers Band and DJ Nospa will close off the evening with electrifying performances.

Admission

Entrance to the championship is free, making it an accessible and inclusive celebration of sport and community.

As the slogan goes, “Champions deserve a Champion beer,” and this Saturday, Bulawayo will be the epicenter of championship spirit, camaraderie, and unforgettable entertainment.