Township Rollers owner targets Zimbabwean club

Langton Nyakwenda

AFTER acquiring an 80 percent stake in Botswana’s most successful club, Township Rollers, Zimbabwean businessman Tendani Sebata is now targeting to invest in a local team, if an opportunity arises.

The 48-year-old Sebata, who was born and bred in rural Beitbridge, assumed the presidency at the 16-time Botswana Premier League champions on July 18, and becomes probably the first Zimbabwean to have a major stake in a foreign top-flight team. Sebata says his decision to buy shares in a Botswana-based club was premised on his desire to look beyond Zimbabwe and create a platform for players across Southern Africa.

He also wants to spearhead football collaboration between the two neighbouring countries.

But if an opportunity to buy a local franchise arises, he is willing to take it up.

He revealed that he is working on the modalities to establish a football institution in Zimbabwe.

“The idea is to establish an academy in the rural areas of Beitbridge, which can then grow into a big football club,” Sebata told Zimpapers Sports Hub in an interview.

“But if a top-flight franchise is available, we can get it and then relocate the club to rural Beitbridge.

“Rural-based people do not get attention; they are often neglected and most talented footballers out there end up missing on opportunities.”

Sebata was raised in Magologwani village, Tshabetha.

He then went to South Africa for tertiary education and is now the owner of Sebata Group, which has vast interests in the transport sector, security and cargo handling.

Sebata says he fell in love with football at a young age, and was always inspired to develop sport in Beitbridge.

“My commitment to football development led me to initiate several projects in the area, including youth training programmes and community tournaments,” he said.

“These efforts seek to nurture young talent and provide opportunities for aspiring footballers in Beitbridge, contributing to the growth of the sport both locally and beyond.”

He is working closely with schools in Beitbridge with the aim of developing young athletes.

He has sponsored a number of youth football tournaments and has donated football equipment across Beitbridge.

His passion for football spilled into Botswana, where he is now the major shareholder at Township Rollers.

“As the president of Township Rollers, it is an honour to lead such a prestigious football club in the Botswana Premier League,” he said.

“Being a Zimbabwean with a stake in this club allows me to bring a unique perspective and drive positive change.”

Zimbabwe and Botswana have a decent football connection as many Zimbabwean players and coaches have worked in the neighbouring country.

Former Highlanders coach Mandla “Lulu” Mpofu is employed at Sua Flamengo.

Luke Masomere, Willard Khumalo (late), Barry Daka (late), Madinda Ndlovu, Rahman Gumbo (late), Shepherd Murape, Roy Barreto, Philani “Beefy” Ncube and Taurai Mangwiro are some of the coaches who worked with Botswana Premier League sides.

Some of the local players who have featured in the Botswana Premier League are former Dynamos striker Edmore Mufema, Dominic Chungwa, Kelvin Bingala, Wilfred Muvirimi, Anelka Chivandire, Tinashe Balakasi and Agrippa Murimba.

Warriors striker Daniel Musendami and ex-Highlanders star Nqobizitha Masuku won the league championship with Jwaneng Galaxy in 2023.

Sebata is convinced collaboration between Zimbabwe and Botswana can enhance standards in the two countries.

“This role provides a fantastic opportunity for me to spearhead collaboration between Zimbabwe and Botswana, enhancing football standards and creating a platform for regional talent to flourish,” he said.

“It’s a proud moment for me to contribute to the success and growth of Township Rollers and to witness the unifying power of football across borders.

“I feel a deep sense of pride and responsibility as this role allows me to bridge football development between Zimbabwe and Botswana, fostering regional talent.

“My vision is to maintain Township Rollers as a united, world-class entity through collaboration with members, supporters and the business community.”

The Sebata Group has driven several initiatives in Zimbabwe aimed at bringing about change to young people through sports at various schools in Beitbridge, including Kwalu Secondary, Govha Primary, Bgemula Primary, Chamnanana Primary and Chabeta Primary.

“These efforts are aimed at nurturing young talent, promoting physical activity and fostering a spirit of teamwork and discipline among the youth in Zimbabwe,” said Sebata.