In a heartwarming display of community spirit and dedication to sport development, Mr. Billy Mareya, a native of Chitungwiza who has made a new life in the United Kingdom, returned to his roots to make a significant contribution to sport in his hometown.

During a recent visit, Mr. Mareya donated soccer kits to two primary schools—Chinembiri and Fungisai Primary as well as the essential gear to the Chitungwiza Junior Football Development League. He didn’t stop there as he also provided a rugby kit to the Eastern Warthogs Rugby 7s team based at Damview in Chitungwiza helping to foster love for sport among the local youth.

Mr. Mareya’s journey back to Chitungwiza was fueled by a passion for giving back to the community that shaped his sporting career when he played for the Zimbabwe National Rugby Team.

“I grew up playing rugby in this community and I believe I should contribute positively to sport development in the area that raised me to be who I am today,” Mr. Mareya stated during the donation ceremony held at Fungisai Primary School on Friday. “I want to inspire the next generation of athletes and show them that with hard work and determination, they can achieve their dreams.”

The donations comprised soccer and rugby kits, including jerseys, shorts, and socks for the schools and community clubs. These kits will not only to promote team spirit among the young athletes but also instill a sense of pride in representing their schools and clubs.Chitungwiza Junior Football Development League also received kit to enhance their programs, which focus on developing young talent in the area.

In addition to the soccer kits, Eastern Warthogs a Community Rugby 7s team also received a complete rugby kit to enable them to pursue their passion with greater ease.This support comes at a crucial time as the team aims to expand its outreach and horizon in sport, particularly in the community of Chitungwiza

Mr. Mareya’s act of kindness serves as an inspiration to others, highlighting the importance of giving back to the community and supporting the dreams of aspiring young athletes. His generosity has not only provided much-needed resources but also fostered a sense of hope and encouragement within the local sporting community.

His philanthropic efforts was met with immense gratitude from the beneficiaries.

“This donation will make a tremendous difference in the lives of these young athletes,” remarked Mr Livingstone Manhombo the Vice Chairperson for the Chitungwiza Junior Football Development League. “Access to quality equipment can significantly boost confidence and performance of the abundant talent in the community“.He added.

The Headmaster at Fungisai Primary, Mr Chihengere also expressed his gratitude towards the kit donation.

“This is a huge boost for our children and many of them could only dream about having such kits. This will motivate them to participate more actively in sport.” said Mr Chiherenge.

The event was marked by excited cheers from the children as they donned their new kits. The atmosphere was filled with joy, and for many, it was a memorable day that highlighted the importance of community and support in nurturing talent.

Mr Billy Mareya’s generous gesture went beyond just equipment; it represented a powerful message of hope and opportunity. As he gears up for his return to the UK where he is persuing a career in powerlifting, he emphasized the need for continued support for sport development in Chitungwiza. “I hope this is just the beginning,” Mareya concluded. “I plan to work with other former residents abroad to create more initiatives that support our youth and promote a healthy lifestyle through sport.”

As word spreads about Mr Mareya’s contributions, it is clear that his acts of kindness resonate deeply within the Chitungwiza community and inspire many to consider how they too can make a difference in the lives of young athletes.