Chuma, Aipira shine at the 15th edition of Zimaza Games

Zambia's Julius Nyimbiri (centre) wins the 100-meter race during the 15th edition of the Zimaza (Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia) Games at the Kenya School of Law ground in Karen, Nairobi, September 28, 2024. [Mose Sammy, Standard]

Manners Chuma of Zimbabwe and Tala Aipira of Malawi dazzled in the 15th edition of the Zimaza (Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia) Games held across various venues in Nairobi at the weekend.

Chuma and his compatriot Keith Chibafa steered their country to lift the golf tournament held at the Golf Park along Ngong Road on two under par 68. Zambia came second on five over par 75 as Malawi finished third on 19 over par 89.

In addition, Chuma bagged the overall winner's award in the golf contest in the annual games for the first time. Chibafa settled for runners-up while their compatriot Stacey Mika emerged as the lady winner and the second runner-up (overall ranking).

"The golf contest was competitive, at the same time, very amazing. We had a good experience on the course. We hope to defend this title next year," noted Chibafa after the victory.

"We also had a wonderful time on the '19th hole' where we not only shared drinks but also exchanged ideas that will be progressive to our businesses," he added.

Aipira cruised to the tape to win two gold medals and a silver in an athletic showdown held at the Kenya School of Law in Karen.

The Braeburn School student triumphed in the Girls U12 100m and the Girls U12 200m categories before settling for silver in the women's 200m.

Dazzling Aipira also led Malawi to clinch the overall team title in athletics with 52 points. Zambia came second with 49 points. Zimbabwe completed the podium with 44 points.

"It feels good to be a champion. I'm using these games to step up training for my forthcoming school championships set for Kasarani Stadium later in the year," underlined Aipira, who aspires to be an elite athlete.

In football, Zambia edged Malawi and Zimbabwe 1-0 apiece to be declared the champions. Malawi was second, while Zimbabwe was third.

The thrilling games were held under the theme, 'Celebrating the past, embracing the future,' to promote unity, interaction, networking and sharing of ideas and experiences among the Zimbabweans, Malawians and Zambians living in Kenya.

Among the sponsors who came on board to support this year's edition were TBD, FCM, Abasa Bank, Nyaradzo Group and Mambos Butchery and Grill.

Others were JTL, Mukuru, Tose, Ibis Styles, Embassy of Zimbabwe to Kenya and Mawimbi Seafood.

While commenting on the contests, Zimbabwe Ambassador to Kenya, Uganda and Somalia Winpeg Moyo stated: "The games are special to us this year because it's Zimbabwe that was hosting them. They also coincided with Zimbabwe's takeover of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) chairmanship.

"These contests are vital in that they help us celebrate our common heritage, history, and tradition, including with our families from across the borders," Moyo underlined.

"I flew last night (on Friday) from Harare not to miss the competition as it provided a big opportunity to get together and celebrate with our families, apart from the sporting aspect of it," she added.

Association of Zimbabweans Living In Kenya Chairman Fungai  Makoni noted that the Zimaza Games have grown from strength to strength each season, bringing people together in a healthy and competitive environment that transcends beyond the borders.

"I encourage citizens from the involved nations to embrace the sports, including the newly introduced golf," Makoni highlighted.

Zambia High Commission Chargé d'Affaires, Luyando Sichula who was attending the games for the first time admitted she was excited and thrilled with the talents showcased in the competitions.

Her sentiments were echoed by the Association of Malawians Living in Kenya representative Maggie Kapanda who was gracing the occasion for the third time.

"We had lots of fun and shared our foods, we enjoyed networking and brainstorming on ideas that can enable us to expand and grow our businesses," stated Kapanda.