By Desire Tshuma
MUTARE— Minister of Defence Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri has congratulated businessman Evance Kamombo for taking over Manica Diamonds Football Club, saying the move reflects President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s call for Zimbabweans to lead local enterprise.
In her message , Min Muchinguri Kashiri said Kamombo’s investment in the Mutare-based Premier Soccer League club embodies the “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” mantra championed by the President. She encouraged more locals to open and run businesses and enterprises that benefit communities.
The Minister has also fulfilled a pledge to cover gate entry for the first 1000 supporters at tomorrow’s match between Manica Diamonds and Highlanders at Sakubva Stadium. All supporters who enter the stadium before 12:30 pm will have their tickets paid for, with the Minister having already settled the cost.
Manica Diamonds supporters from across Manicaland expressed happiness over the change in management. Vendors outside Sakubva said business has picked up since Kamombo’s takeover.
“Since the new boss came in, we are seeing more people coming to the stadium. My sales of snacks and drinks have doubled,” said Memory Chikumbirike, a vendor who has been selling at Sakubva for five years.
Another vendor, Tapiwa Marange, said: “We are hopeful the club will grow under Mr Kamombo. When the team does well and more fans come, our business also grows.”
Some supporters urged the new management to focus on developing local talent. “We want to see boys from Manicaland wearing the Manica Diamonds jersey. The team should scout from our schools and academies,” said Tinashe Makoni, a lifelong Diamonds fan.
The match against Highlanders kicks off at 3:00 pm on Sunday 24 May 2026. Min Muchinguri Kashiri’s gesture is expected to boost attendance as Manica Diamonds seek to climb the PSL table under new leadership.