Growing up in the sprawling suburb of Sakubva in Mutare in the custody of a single mother, it never occurred to ABSA premiership side Free State Stars defender Liberty Chakoroma that he could one day in his life play professional football, let alone featuring for the national team.
KENNETH NYANGANI
After discovering his talent, Chakoroma kept determination and hard work up on his mind until today. The 21-year old former Buffaloes player now has his name inscribed amongst those representing the country.
Besides the Warriors story, Chakoroma’s breakthrough into the South African top flight league has given him more courage as he now eyes a move to Europe.
Chakoroma joined Free State Stars in the mid- season transfer window last year from now relegated Buffaloes on a one year contract which had an option of a two-year renewal clause.
The towering defender seems to be on the right track, having impressed at national level for the Under-20 and 23s and making his debut for the senior national team in the African Championships (Chan) qualifiers against Comoros.
Chakoroma, a player who grew up in the eastern border town and cut his teeth in junior football under renowned coach Timothy “Sicho” Masachi spoke to Standardsport last week.
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He pointed out how the move to South Africa changed his life from the hand to mouth struggles in Mutare to relative comfort in South Africa.
“I would first of all like to thank South African based businessman James “Hwetu” Lunga Meya, who is also my manager for facilitating the deal to such a lucrative league. One thing that I liked about the league is the level of professionalism they have. From my judgement, I think it is one of the best leagues in Africa,” Chakoroma said.
He added, “We have a new coach at my club, and I hope he is going to give me more game time so that I gain experience and confidence to improve my game.
“I have adapted well. At first I used to have problems with their language, but I am getting used now. The environment is very conducive and I have been working well with other players.”
Chakoroma spoke about his surprise call to the national team structures.
“I never expected to play for any national team in my career let alone a move to the lucrative South African league. When I was growing up, my aim was to play in Zimbabwe’s topflight league only, but I am happy I have surpassed my target,’’ Chakoroma said.
Among his admirers is former ZPC Kariba coach Saul Chaminuka who has already declared that the sky is the limit for the towering defender.
Chaminuka together with Masa-chi lured Chakoroma to Buffaloes in 2013 from a junior football team called Deportivo La Sakubva based in Mutare.
Having been in South Africa for just six months, Chakoroma has already shown gratitude to his former team Deportivo by donating football kits to them.
“One has to remember where they came from. It’s just the beginning of bigger things to come.”
Meya, a former footballer said he will use his connections to create opportunities that will benefit more footballers from this country especially those from Mutare.
The man who has changed the football landscape in Mutare has already donated football kits to newly promoted side Mutare City Rovers, Eastern Region Division One side Buffaloes and Tenax.
“I am trying to use my long stay in South Africa to open up opportunities for youngsters. I have a number of youngsters that I have identified that I am trying to help move to the ABSA premiership,” he said.
“l am happy with Chakoroma , he is adapting well , the management at his club is happy with his progress. I am always in contact with him to check on his welfare because it is crucial to be disciplined to reach great heights.’’
He added: “Our target is to motivate the boy to secure a regular spot in the first team and this is highly likely to happen in the last half of the season. Considering his age we are hoping that the player will break into Europe. He has good height that can work to his advantage.”
