TWO budding football stars from Bulawayo have officially signed for Botswana First Division side JJ United in a move that highlights the growing pipeline of Zimbabwean talent seeking opportunities abroad.
Attacking midfielder Moses “Magodo” Banda and goalkeeper Harmony “Harmza” Dube, both 22, were groomed at Vitality FC in Lobengula suburb under coach Erifasi “Uwa” Zitsanza.
They gained their first senior experience with JM Busha in Zimbabwe’s Eastern Region Soccer League before travelling for trials with JJ United in August.
After impressing the coaching staff, they were signed at the beginning of September for an undisclosed fee.
Reports indicate they are now the highest-paid players at the club and have already received their monthly salaries twice.
Their agent, Gilbert Sengwe of Focus Sports Management, is overseeing the process as the players received their work permits last week and inspired their team to a 1-0 victory over Ferry Wonders away from home at the Prisons Grounds.
The youngsters have settled well in the new environment and they both revealed that they were fully focused on performing to their best abilities.
“It’s good that we were both signed by the team,” Banda said.
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“We have played together since a young age with Harmza and I know we will do our best to ensure that the team fights for promotion to the top-flight.”
Football was a family affair discovered in 2008 for Banda, he said.
“ I have been watching my older brother play football,” he said.
“ His game is now modelled on the elegant style of Barcelona stars.
“My biggest influences are Frenkie de Jong and Pedri.”
“My most memorable moment in football was my debut for JM Busha at the age of 19.”
Dube traced his passion for the game to a continental spectacle.
“Watching the 2010 World Cup in South Africa made me want to be a football player,” he revealed.
His role model between the posts is South Africa’s veteran keeper, Itumeleng Khune.
“Keep working hard for what you love,” Dube advised budding players.
“Hard work, determination, and prayer will lead you all the way.”
The signing represents a significant moment for both the players and JJ United, who are currently fifth in the Botswana First Division North League with seven points from five matches.
JJ United, based in Sefhare, recently earned promotion to the Debswana First Division North League for the 2024/25 season after winning the Eastern Block promotional playoffs.
The club also fields a women’s team in the Tswapong Region Women’s Football League.
