Boxer Chiwandire receives pat on the back from Govt

Harare (New Ziana) – The government on Tuesday commended boxer Kudakwashe Chiwandire on her recent victory, saying it was a result of hard work which every girl child should strive to emulate.

Known by her moniker “Take Money,” Chiwandire overcame Mexican challenger Zulina Munoz to defend her World Boxing Council super-bantamweight interim title at a bout held in the capital last Friday.

Charmed by her success, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development permanent secretary Moses Mhike commended Chiwandire for raising the Zimbabwean flag high and for being a torchbearer for all sportswomen in the country.

“You are a model and what you have accomplished through sport is evident of the power of a woman and you are blazing a trail that every girl child must strive to emulate,” he said.

“Women are most disadvantaged in our society and in most cases are relegated to lesser and inferior roles. Through your grit and perseverance, you have stood firm and uplifted yourself setting an example for the girl child. You have retained the honours, continue to shine and be a star to every girl child in our wonderful nation of Zimbabwe.”

Speaking after her victory, Chiwandire, who is now aiming for the WBC Bantamweight Gold title, thanked Zimbabweans for the support she received during the title fight.

“I want to thank Zimbabweans for their support. At first I thought it was going to be an easy fight but it was a very tough fight. Munoz is a very experienced fighter and I owe it to the home support,” Chiwandire said.

“I really felt motivated with the support that I got from Zimbabweans. I promise to continue raising the country’s flag higher. I want to continue scaling higher in boxing.”

Chiwandire (27) pocketed US$25 000 prize money and was also given US$10 000 by Youth, Sports, Arts and Recreation Deputy Minister Tino Machakaire, who also intimated that the star boxer could also get a house and a car.

Renowned businessman Pedzisayi “Scott” Sakupwanya pledged the same amount.

The fight was postponed thrice due to financial challenges.

Initially, it was supposed to take place on August 20, before it was deferred by a week, with the government stepping in after it failed to happen again on August 27 and October 1 while the WBC were also lenient with Zimbabwe and allowed Chiwandire to finally defend her title against Munoz.
New Ziana