Harare, May 7 (NewsDay Live) When Barry Manandi and Mike Madoda left Power FM in 2017, they cited a shift toward music-heavy programming and a desire for a more dynamic platform.
They resurfaced at ZiFM Stereo, where they built one of the country’s most recognisable sports radio brands. For nearly a decade, their evening slot became appointment listening for sports audiences.
Reports that the pair have now returned to Power FM potentially with key members of their ZiFM team point to a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s sports broadcasting landscape.
A full-team move?
At ZiFM, Manandi and Madoda worked with a core unit that included Chriss Grey, former international Alois Bunjira and producer Sean Tafirenyika. Together, they developed a format widely regarded as one of the country’s most engaging sports talk offerings.
If that unit has moved intact, Power FM is not simply hiring presenters it is acquiring a ready-made, audience-tested product with established chemistry and brand equity.
Keep Reading
- Abbra Simmz, Irie Dread teams up for new radio show
- Bulawayo Financial Outlet Hit in $100k Daylight Heist
- Western Union partners Sasai Fintech to expand digital remittances in Africa
- Malilangwe Trust seeks licence for 2MW solar plant at Chiredzi conservancy
Strategic implications
Manandi’s delivery and analysis, combined with Madoda’s cross-platform experience including stints on ZTV and SuperSport have historically translated into strong listener retention.
For Power FM, the move suggests an attempt to deepen its talk programming and compete more aggressively in sports content an area where ZiFM has held a clear edge.
The risk is structural. If Power FM retains a predominantly music-driven format, it may struggle to sustain the kind of consistent, high-engagement sports programming that underpinned the duo’s success at ZiFM.
Unanswered questions
Key details remain unclear. The circumstances of their departure from ZiFM have not been disclosed, nor has there been official confirmation of the full lineup or programming slot at Power FM.
It is also uncertain how audiences will respond. The duo’s following has previously proven portable moving with them from earlier platforms to ZiFM but whether that loyalty translates back to Power FM will be a key test.
What is clear is that, if confirmed, the move represents the most consequential shift in Zimbabwean sports radio talent in nearly a decade.
Power FM management and Manandi did not respond to requests for comment.