The Sunday Mail
Langton Nyakwenda
Sports Reporter
POPULAR Dynamos and Warriors cheerleader, Ebber Judith Javachava, died in a car accident in Harare on Saturday morning.
A colourful figure at most of the national team’s home and away matches, and a Dynamos super fan, Judith was also mother to former ZIFA Northern Region administrator Andrew Javachava, who is now the Ngezi Platinum Stars team manager.
Javachava’s death led to an outpouring of grief.
Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association (ZNSSA) founding leader Eddie “Mboma” Nyatanga described her “as a colourful character”.
“She was a colourful character who lured quite a number of ladies to the beautiful game. They brought fun and entertainment to the stadiums.
“She was always a joy to associate with and she will be greatly missed,” said Nyatanga.
Prominent Warriors supporter, Chris “Romario” Musekiwa, says football has been robbed of a “fearless and passionate fan”.
“Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association has learnt with profound shock and sadness on the tragic death of one of our vice presidents and lifelong staunch Dynamos fan Ebber Judith Javachava in a road traffic accident,” Musekiwa, who is also ZNSSA organising secretary, said.
“We have been robbed of a fearless, passionate fan; a caring and loving mother. An advisor not only to supporters but players too.
“Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends and the entire football fraternity.
“She was there in Egypt at the 2019 AFCON finals rallying and mobilising support for our Warriors. We pray that God gives us strength and comfort during this tough time.
“We will give her a befitting send-off.”
Ngezi Platinum Stars, where the late Javachava’s son Andrew is employed, also sent their condolences on Saturday afternoon.
“Sincere condolences to our team manager Andrew Javachava who lost his mother in a car accident this morning.
“Rest in peace Mama Javachava.
“Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with Andrew and his family during this time of mourning.”
Former ZIFA chief executive Jonathan Mashingaidze, who is now the Dynamos CEO, also spoke highly of Javachava.
“A vivacious and bubbling football life cut short …so unbelievable and painful … may her gentle soul rest in eternal peace. She was also a colourful football volunteer.
“I also worked well with her son Andrew during my time at ZIFA and he was the Northern Region administrator,” Mashingaidze said.
Former Zimbabwe Women’s Soccer League boss, Mavis Gumbo, was also saddened by Javachava’s death and recalled how she passionately led supporters when they rallied the Mighty Warriors during a golden era for the women’s game.
“She had established herself as a familiar face at any national team match and she was equally passionate about Dynamos. I recall how she used to rally support for the Mighty Warriors. My condolences to her son Andrew and the family,’’ Gumbo said.
