Zimbabwe: Kaonga makes CAPS United promise, Kamwendo’s shadow looms big

Malawian striker Chawanangwa Kaonga faces an arduous task of emulating the feat of compatriot Joseph Kamwendo at CAPS United in Zimbabwe.

The former Silver Strikers forward signed for the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) during the pre-season on a free transfer from ZANACO FC in Zambia.

The Flames forward joined Makepekepe alongside compatriot Lloyd Njaliwa from Costa do Sol in Mozambique.

As CAPS United prepare to kickstart their Castle Lager PSL campaign against Agama FC on Sunday, Kaonga has made a bold promise to the Harare-based club’s fans.

Writing on his Facebook page, the 31-year-old said he was looking forward to the new season in the Castle Lager PSL and he promised to deliver the goods.

Kaonga and his promise to CAPS United 

“As we kick off the new season tomorrow, I am fully prepared to deliver my best performance for CAPS United FC and contribute to the team’s success in achieving its new objectives,” the Malawian said.

“I have faith in my abilities and trust God that it will be a successful season for both me and the team.”

Such a promise cannot come without the context of Kamwendo’s influence at United.

Many Malawians, including Raquib Milanzi, Gerard Phiri Junior, Hadji Tambala and Gift Makoloni have slipped in the famous green and white of CAPS United.

But no other Malawian has ever come close to the legendary status of Kamwendo at the team that is also called Makepekepe.

How Kamwendo blazed the trail at CAPS United

Now head of United’s youth and second assistant to head coach Takesure Chiragwi, the former Flames star was the first Malawian to win the Zimbabwe Soccer Star of the Year Award for the 2005-2006 season.

Such are lofty standards that Kamwendo set for Kaonga and other Malawians to follow. For Kamwendo, it was not just about scoring but a whole repertoire of creating, scoring and deciding games singlehandedly.

Over to you Kaonga. Deliver on your promise.

Castle Lager PSL fixtures

Sunday March 8, 2026

CAPS United v Agama FC at Rufaro Stadium

Manica Diamond v Simba Bhora at Gibbo Stadium

Scottland v HardRock FC at Chawhanda Stadium

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