By Howard Masaninga
The story of Mbizo Stadium’s establishment as a recreational facility has remained largely untold—until now. This week, *The Public Eye Sport* had the rare opportunity to speak with the visionary behind its creation, Johnson Mike Pilime.
Known for his strict demeanor as an educationist, Pilime served the Kwekwe district as an Education Officer before rising to the position of Staffing Officer for the Midlands Region, where he worked until his retirement. However, in an exclusive interview with our publication, he revealed a different side of himself—a passionate football lover.
Born in 1946 in Plumtree, Pilime later moved to Musengezi near Chegutu, where he completed his education before training as a teacher in Mutare in 1965. He secured his first teaching position at Chiedza Primary School the following year.
In 1969, driven by his love for football and recognizing the community’s lack of a proper sports facility, he approached the local authorities. He visited the Mbizo 1 offices and spoke with Mugoli, who was responsible for recreation and community service. Pilime advocated for the need for a football pitch, prompting Mugoli to encourage him to seek out a suitable site.
Pilime identified an open space that is now home to Mbizo Stadium.
After reporting back to Mugoli, he received the green light to begin clearing the land.
Lacking machinery, Pilime mobilized manpower, enlisting fellow players from school—including Lameck (aka Ram) and Mugoli.
He provided essential tools like axes, slashers, shovels and hoes, while some were supplied by the council.
As soon as the ground was ready, more enthusiastic youngsters joined in, leading to the formation of Mbizo Shooting Stars.
The team included notable players such as the late Jonah Murehwa, who later made his mark at Airforce (Chapungu), and Victor Nhete, known for his time with Chrome Stars. They competed against teams like Ziza United and were eventually joined by Kambasha United, allowing them to travel to other towns, including Masvingo, Fort Victoria, Gweru and Kadoma.
Eventually, Pilime was involved in the administration of the club.
In 1971, the local council took over the development of the stadium, which has evolved into its current state.
By 1974, Pilime decided to shift his focus to family life and stepped away from the club.
Today, Mbizo Stadium stands as a significant symbol of football in the community, largely thanks to Johnson Mike Pilime’s vision and dedication.
In 1998, there were attempts to upgrade the facility following Zimbabwe’s bid to host the Africa Cup of Nations, but the country lost the bid to Burkina Faso and the work was ultimately abandoned.
Reflecting on the establishment of the stadium, Pilime expressed pride, stating, “I am very happy to have been the founder of this establishment. I am proud to see it standing there today as a creation of my own hands. The whole idea behind my inspiration was to keep the youngsters away from drugs and wayward behaviors.”
