Rising powerlifter Tinotenda Munatswa has announced her arrival on Zimbabwe’s strength sports scene after clinching Overall First Position in the Junior Under-23 category at the WFF Novice Cup held in Harare recently.
The Kadoma-based athlete secured top honours in her debut competition, delivering an impressive performance that earned recognition from WFF Zimbabwe and positioned her among the country’s most promising young lifters.
Backed by sponsors Vabvuma Sports, GSN, and IKE Motors, the Novice Cup — held in April under the World Fitness Federation Zimbabwe banner — attracted emerging athletes from across the country. In a competitive Junior Under-23 division, Munatswa stood out by posting the highest combined total across all lifters.
For the 2002-born athlete, the victory marked more than just a winning debut — it was a statement of intent.
Munatswa’s journey began in Sanyati, where she attended Munyaradzi Primary and High School.
Driven by a desire to test her limits from a young age, she later moved to Kadoma, where she joined Energym Fitness Club under the guidance of coach Stanley Kapeta.
“I was born to challenge myself,” she said. “From primary school, I knew I wanted to be strong—not just for me, but to show other girls from Sanyati that we can do this.”
She began structured training in 2022 and credits Energym Fitness Club for refining her technique and discipline.
“Energym is home. Coach Stanley Kapeta believed in me when I was just starting out. I am proud to represent the gym and the city of Kadoma,” she said.
Munatswa also used her platform to encourage young people to pursue sport as a positive pathway.
“Youth should get involved in sport and stay away from drugs and substance abuse. This sport is open to everyone, including the girl child,” she added.
Looking ahead, Munatswa is already preparing for her next challenge — the Kwekwe Sports Festival: Bodybuilding and Strength Challenges set for May 16, 2026.
“I want to test myself again and lift bigger numbers. Winning the Novice Cup was just the beginning. Now I have to prove it wasn’t luck,” she said.
Her coach praised her rapid rise and dedication.
“When she joined Energym, she had determination. Now she has a national title. This is what happens when talent meets discipline,” he said.
“She is putting Kadoma on the map and inspiring young girls to take up strength sports.”
Energym Fitness Club, based in Kadoma, has become a key hub for youth development, offering programmes in weightlifting, bodybuilding, boxing, aerobics, and general fitness.
Munatswa’s victory carries broader significance. It highlights the emergence of elite talent from smaller towns such as Kadoma and Sanyati, reinforces the growing investment in Zimbabwe’s strength sports, and positions her as a potential future national team contender.
For Munatswa, however, this is only the beginning.
With her sights set on consistency and growth, she is determined to build on her breakthrough performance.
