By ZiMining Reporter
SIMBA Bhora FC, affectionately known as Go Buju Go, is on the brink of making history in Zimbabwe’s Premier Soccer League.
Zimbabwean football is experiencing a thrilling transformation, with nearly half of the league’s 18 teams backed by mining companies. Successful teams like FC Platinum and Ngezi Platinum have changed the competitive environment, and currently, Go Buju Go is leading the way in this exciting new period.
Founded in 2008, Simba Bhora has steadily risen through the ranks, securing notable achievements, including the 2021/22 Northern Region Soccer League Championship. This season, at the time of writing, Go Buju Go has put together an impressive record: after 29 matches, they sit atop the league with 60 points, having won 18 games and scoring 36 goals.
Wadzanai Stadium: A Fortress of Unity
Wadzanai Stadium has become a fortress for Go Buju Go. Matchdays are electric, with local supporters, many tied to the mining industry, filling the stands. Zimbabwean football rarely finds an atmosphere of unity like this.
“I credit the boys … but we need to focus more on getting results. The race is not over yet … and anything can happen along the way,” said head coach Tonderai Ndira in an interview with the Chronicle. He has expertly melded experienced players with emerging local talent. Ndiraya’s tactical finesse, combined with the mining sector’s financial backing, has turned Go Buju Go into serious title contenders.
Dominance on the Pitch
The team’s commanding performances are no accident. Simba Bhora’s blend of discipline and creativity has left seasoned opponents struggling. While clubs like FC Platinum and Ngezi Platinum have historically dominated, Simba Bhora now stands poised to rewrite this narrative.
As the club inches closer to its maiden title, Shamva’s community waits with bated breath. With five matches remaining at the time of writing, Wadzanai Stadium promises to be a hub of excitement. This journey transcends football; it embodies a revitalisation of community pride. Shamva, once a quiet mining town, now roars with anticipation for the trophy to be lifted.
A Broader Narrative of Transformation
Simba Bhora’s success reflects a wider story within Zimbabwean football. The influx of mining revenue has dramatically altered the game’s dynamics. Among the top teams this season, several, including giants FC Platinum, Ngezi Platinum, and Manica Diamonds, have similarly used mining resources to enhance their infrastructure and develop talent.
The club’s owners, Simba Ndoro, Brighton Ushendibaba, and Brighton Bako, have leveraged their industry connections to secure resources for a competitive squad. Yet their aspirations extend beyond trophies.
While the mining industry has undeniably influenced Go Buju Go’s rise, the spirit of Shamva’s people breathes life into the club. Many fans, employed in local mines, passionately support their team. Wadzanai Stadium serves as a rallying point for a community stepping into the limelight.
A Historic Moment Awaits
With only five matches remaining and a commanding 10-point lead at the time of writing, the dream of winning the Premier Soccer League title is tantalisingly close. For Go Buju Go, this moment marks the dawn of a new chapter—not just for the club but for the mining towns of Zimbabwe, where football has become a beacon of pride, joy, and hope.
The club’s motto, “Chinhu Chedu,” meaning “Our Thing,” reflects the deep connection between Go Buju Go and its community. It embodies their mission to uphold professionalism while surrounding themselves with love, peace, and tranquillity. As Shamva rallies around its team, the roar of the community echoes from Wadzanai Stadium, a testament to the transformative power of sport in uniting hearts and igniting dreams.
