By Staff writer
Bulawayo Province finished top of the boxing standings at the 2026 National Youth Games in Marondera last weekend, thanks in large part to the work of Njube Boxing Academy founder and top junior coach Arnold “King Yaya” Sibanda.
Despite sending only 6 boxers instead of the allocated 10, Bulawayo topped the log with 3 gold and 2 bronze medals for a total of 5 medals. Masvingo finished second with 7 medals, while Midlands came third with 4.
Speaking to Sports Grind Africa after the tournament, Sibanda said the performance was proof that hard work and discipline were paying off.
“When our boxer Somandla ‘Tyson’ Sibanda was crowned Boxer of the Tournament, that was a proud moment for us. Not because of the award, but because the hard work we put in has paid off,” said Sibanda.
“What made me very happy is that the boy will see that hard work has a price. That award will motivate him to keep going and work even harder.”
Sibanda, who founded Njube Boxing Academy with “nothing but passion” to take kids off the streets and keep them away from drugs and substance abuse, said the results had put Bulawayo boxing on the map.
He called on corporate Zimbabwe to support the sport.
“My wish is for us to get sponsors and have more tournaments like these, more frequently. It helps our boxers stay in shape and working hard knowing there is something to play for. It’s good for development.
Like what happens in football where there are junior leagues that play every weekend that’s what I wish for boxing.
We have vast talent in Zimbabwe. We can raise champions that can take us to the world stage and conquer,” he added.
Coach Sibanda has produced several junior champions through Njube Boxing Academy and is widely regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s leading boxing development coaches.
