By Alice Mangwanda
Former Mighty Warriors beefy defender Ennie “Bhonzo” Konje, is determined to combat not only drug abuse but also the spread of HIV and AIDS among adolescents through sport.
Konje came out clear at a workshop organized by the National AIDS Council (NAC) in conjunction with the Sportswriters Association off Zimbabwe (SWAZ) at Chinhoyi University of Technology in Mashonaland West.
Though appearing frail, the Harare City Queens coach surprised the auditorium with a healthy performance much sharper than Joe Biden’s rumbling in his last Presidential television debate as she underwent grilling by the sports journalists.
Konje shared her journey in soccer which was not without it’s pitfalls.
“I grew up playing soccer with boys at school and at home, and was selected into the Mighty Warriors in the year 2000,” Konje said.
Despite facing discouragement and criticism, she persevered and followed her passion with pride and joy.
Konje encourages young girls to take up sports, particularly soccer, as it does not hinder their social life.
“Being a soccer player did not stop me from getting married and having kids. I’m a mother of three, and having children did not affect my performance,” she emphasized.
Konje’s dream is to start her own soccer academy to groom young girls and boys into professional footballers while helping them avoid drug and substance abuse, as well as the spread of HIV and AIDS among adolescents.
However, financial constraints and not health issues are holding her back.
“Finances are the major setback. Once I secure the needed funds, I will open the academy,” Konje, a true epitome of a sportperson living positively, said.
As a coach, Konje has established a team of girls who are coached in soccer, which has helped eradicate substance and drug abuse, as well as the spread of HIV and AIDS.
She attributes the recent surge in drug abuse among youths to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to idleness and unproductive activities.
Konje has faced numerous setbacks throughout her journey in the football sector but remains determined to make a positive impact.
