By Gilbert Munetsi

Harare- Africa Union and SADC Chairman who is also the President of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe, has paid tribute to Zambia for assisting in uplifting the status of its boxing hero, Charles Manyuchi, who recently retained his WBC welterweight international title by beating Italian Gianlucca Frezza.
President Mugabe, in a speech at State House today (30 July) at which he invited Oriental Quarries Boxing Promotions Operations trio of director Christopher Malunga, trainer Mike Zulu and WBC silver champion Catherine Phiri, said the relations between the two countries go beyond sport as Zambia was besides Zimbabwe in its fight for the liberation of its black people against colonialism.
The President said the two nations remained united by the power of sport.
He also acknowledged the support from the northern neighbouring country for its current policies, saying,
“ We share a common historic background from the (liberation) struggle). I pay special tribute to President Lungu for being a boxing parent to Manyuchi, as well as the people at Oriental Quarries who trained and polished the young man.
“It is gratifying to note that even now, Zambia remain committed to see the total and irreversible emancipation of our people. Also convey our heartfelt tribute to KK who will forever live in our memories and history.”
The Zimbabwean head of State also acknowledged the good work done by Oriental Quarries Boxing Promotions, attributing Manyuchi’s recent victory to the victory of Zambia, Zimbabwe, SADC and Africa.
The banquet to honour Manyuchi was attended by hundreds of dignitaries who included Government Ministers, Chiefs and members from the corporate sector. The boxer was given US$50 000 as a token for his exploits in the ring.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Malunga said they had great plans for the boxer, with the next move being to attend the next WBC Convention in China and bidding for a fight against Amir Khan. Ratings released by the WBC last week place the Zimbabwean-born, Zambia-adopted boxer on the 18th position among the world’s best welterweight punchers.
The Zambian visitors presented a pair of boxing gloves to President Mugabe as their token of appreciation for the invitation and recognition of Manyuchi.