We had to endure a delay before the tournament finally roared to life for the first time since it was mooted in 2020. We had provisionally slated to host the inaugural edition of the Marvelous Nakamba under 17 Invitational tournament in June 2021. Seven days prior to the launch and draw our plans were put to an immediate halt as the government suspended all sporting activities as part of efforts to contain Covid-19 infections.

Having the domestic soccer league in full swing gave us optimism that our dream was going to be a reality in 2022, although we were a little bit worried considering that the pandemic is still with us. Despite this thought preparations had to start we set the ball rolling by engaging various corporates for support which saw Zimbabwean brands like Simbisa and Nyaradzo Group fully support us. In June 2022 we hosted the launch of the first edition of a dream that has always been a part of us “to make a difference to our communities especially to young people.”

The big day came with all its highs and lows, the arrival of the participants, dignitaries, sponsors, members of the press and soccer enthusiasts of all ages dawned on me about the impact this tournament carried on the Zimbabwe’s sports calendar hence the need to work together in preserving this annual event.

On behalf of Marvelous Nakamba and the board of trustees at the foundation I would love to give thanks to our guests Hon. Ziyambi Ziyambi (Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs), Hon. Raj Modi (Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce) the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Recreation, Sports and Recreation Commission, Zimbabwe Football Association, Simbisa Brands, service providers, volunteers and supporters.

To Hwange Dynamo, Majesa Academy, Chicken Inn FC, Highlanders FC, Dynamos FC, Bulawayo City FC, Njube Hotspurs and Ajax Hotspurs thank you for bringing the boys we had a beautiful weekend together. The dream continues and another awesome weekend will be upon us soon.

Twalumba!!! Siyabonga!!! Tatenda!!! Thank you!!!

Yours in Sport

Antony Nakamba

Marvelous Nakamba Foundation Board Chairperson