Zimbabwe mourns ex-Warriors and CAPS United star Charles ‘Raw Meat’ Sibanda
HARARE – The Zimbabwean football fraternity is mourning the passing of ex-Zimbabwe Warriors star and CAPS United legend, Charles ‘Raw Meat’ Sibanda, who died on Tuesday at Mbuya Dorcas Hospital in Waterfalls, Harare. He was 70.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) led the tributes, describing Sibanda as one of the most fearless and influential defenders to ever grace local football.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) joins the entire football fraternity in mourning the passing of former Zimbabwe international defender Charles Sibanda affectionately known as ‘Raw Meat,’” read part of the statement.
“Sibanda’s football journey began in 1971 with the Castle Lions Under-16 team — a club that would later become Salisbury Sables.
“His exceptional discipline and leadership saw him rise through the ranks, featuring for several lower-division clubs before joining Hippo Valley FC between 1976 and 1978.
“There, he not only made his mark as a strong defender but also took on administrative duties, laying the foundation for his lifelong involvement in the game.
“In 1979, Sibanda joined CAPS United, where his uncompromising defending, versatility, and leadership helped the Green Machine to their first-ever top-flight league championship. He was also part of the formidable CAPS United side that won the ZIFA Cup four times in succession between 1980 and 1983 — a record that remains unmatched in local football.
“Renowned for his fearless tackles and commanding presence on the field, Sibanda earned the nickname “Raw Meat.” He was comfortable at left-back, centre-back, or as a defensive midfielder, and earned 44 national team caps for Zimbabwe.
“He shared the Warriors dressing room with some of the country’s all-time greats, including Sunday Chidzambwa, Stanford “Stix” Mtizwa, Shacky Tauro, Joel Shambo, and Graham Boyle.
“After retiring from playing, Sibanda smoothly transitioned into coaching and administration.
“In 1985, he moved to Bulawayo, where he took up a senior personnel management role while continuing to mentor young players at Archer Stars and later Eagles FC, working closely with the late dribbling wizard Boy Ndlovu.
“His coaching career extended beyond Zimbabwe, with successful spells in Botswana at Tafic Stars and Gaborone United, before home to coach Arcadia United and Air Zimbabwe Jets.
“It was during his treturningenure at Air Zimbabwe Jets that he famously discovered and signed future Warriors captain Benjani Mwaruwari from the University of Zimbabwe FC.”
ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi said Sibanda’s passing was a huge loss to the game:
“Charles ‘Raw Meat’ Sibanda’s contribution to Zimbabwean football, both as a player and mentor, will forever be etched in our history. His legacy lives on through the countless players and administrators he inspired,” said Magwizi.
Tributes have also poured in from former players and colleagues.
Former CAPS United winger Brian Badza wrote on Facebook: “I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Charles ‘Raw Meat’ Sibanda. He wasn’t just my first coach in the Premier League with Air Zimbabwe, he was a mentor and a father figure who shaped me both on and off the field.
“His belief in me and guidance made a lasting impact. Rest in peace, Coach — your legacy lives on in all of us who were lucky enough to know you.”
Former ZIFA and Dynamos Chief Executive Jonathan Mashingaidze described Sibanda as “a great footballer and gentleman of the game,” while ex-Warriors captain Moses Chunga added: “You could tell by his nickname what kind of a defender he was — a no-nonsense player, but a calm and humble person off the field. May his soul rest in peace.”
