Seventeen-year-old Zimbabwean karateka Bongeka ‘Mbokodo’ Mguni has returned home a silver medalist after an inspiring performance at the 2025 African Union (AU) Region 5 Youth Games in Namibia — thanks to overwhelming public support through a crowdfunding campaign.
Facing a financial shortfall ahead of the tournament, Mguni, who lives with albinism, launched an appeal to raise just US$150 for travel costs. Her call for help went viral, and the public responded generously, donating a total of US$596 — nearly four times her target.
The campaign was led by Marvellous Tshuma, a well-known advocate for albinism and cancer awareness, who mobilized support across social media to ensure the young athlete could represent Zimbabwe on the continental stage.
Despite the Zimbabwe National Karate Federation (ZNKF) issuing a public statement during the fundraiser discouraging donations — stating that athlete expenses were already covered by the Ministry of Sport — the support for Mguni continued to grow.
Bongeka ‘Mbokodo’ Mguni
The ZNKF had described the fundraising as “unfortunate, inaccurate, and misleading,” but this did not dampen the public’s enthusiasm.
Undistracted by the controversy, Mguni delivered a stellar performance at the games, securing silver in the Under-65kg karate division, a remarkable achievement for the young martial artist.
Tshuma celebrated Mguni’s success online, praising her resilience and the message she sends to others living with albinism:
“Bongeka is proof that albinism does not limit greatness. At just 17, she is challenging stereotypes and showing that people with albinism can compete at the highest level,” Tshuma posted.
She continued:
“Bongeka has already earned multiple accolades in karate, and this silver medal adds another chapter to her incredible journey. Thank you to everyone who contributed — your support made this possible. May you be blessed for helping lift a champion.”
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