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Staff Writer
Former Warriors talisman Cuthbert ‘Kazola’ Malajila revealed that he deeply misses his late partner at their ambitious project, Herbert Manyowa who committed suicide two years ago.
Kazola, as the youthful director is affectionately known, partnered with the late Manyowa to establish a football institution CUMA Academy based in the gold mining City of Kadoma.
The industrious Kazola poured his heart out in an interview at Dalny Mine Stadium in Chakari where his side staged battle against Ngezi Platinum U19 FC in a thrilling D1 NRSL derby.
“I can say l have to do my best to keep this project running. We not just an institution comprised of this team, but, encompass teams starting from the Under 10, 13, 15, 20 and the senior team. Believe me we are not just looking at playing in the Division 1. We aim to go to the highest level. It’s difficult to sponsor football in this country. In that respect, l deeply miss my former fellow director who used to bankroll the club. It has become my sole responsibility to cater for everything. I also am confident we can do it. If l have done it before, what can stop us this time around.
“The project is meant to bring development to our community. I’m grateful to see these youngsters develop and do better. If l have done it out there that should be motivation enough to push my fellow countrymen,” Malajila said.
The former Sundowns and Maritzburg player is passionate about the project that he has sired mainly for Kadoma and its environs.
“I’m touched by the response from youths in the city where l come from. It may be difficult under current conditions to run a club in this country. However, l will strive to ensure we do it,” said the former Dynamos FC skipper. Malajila played his trade at other clubs in and outside the country in his quest for glory.
For his industry, he has achieved what some can only dream of.
Cuthbert Malajila and Hebert Manyowa started an ambitious football academy as a way to give back to the community they come from.
Unfortunately, his co-director Manyowa took his own life in unclear circumstances mid 2019.
Then, critics thought that it was the end of the road for the project, very much to the contrary, the determined director is soldiering on in a financially demanding domain.
He calls upon those from within and outside Kadoma who may have something to contribute for the good of the vision to come on board and do the community a priceless favour.
“This project is financially demanding. I am determined to see it through. It is helping the community from youths as young as below 10-year-olds and the older ones who are benefitting immensely. I call upon those of us who may have the resources to come on board to sustain the project. It’s a project for the people,” the vastly travelled former hitman urged.