NUMBER ONE MEET THE ATHLETE IN AFRICA

In the rustic beauty of Flagstaff village, Eastern Cape, 1980 saw the birth of a unique and spirited individual named Mziwamadoda Camba. Gifted with distinctiveness, Mziwamadoda embraced life as a congenital amputee – a journey that would inspire countless others.

Being born with a congenital amputee condition comes with many challenges. There are many ways in which limb loss affects people. As an example, it can have a profound effect on the child and his or her siblings. Parents, however, face a particularly difficult situation.

“I have disabilities on my left hand and right foot. We have five children at home, four boys and one girl. I am the third child of my parents. “I have two children (a boy and a girl),” he told Rise N Shine.

Mziwamadoda embarked on an exciting educational journey, which began at the enchanting Khwezilokusa Special School, where he spent his formative years. As his curiosity grew, so did his desire to gain further knowledge. This led him to the vibrant city of Pretoria, where he pursued his passion for learning at Philadelphia Secondary School in Soshanguve. But Mziwamadoda’s thirst for knowledge was insatiable - this powerhouse of potential then ventured to the bustling metropolis of Johannesburg, where he delved into the electrifying world of Electrical Engineering at the prestigious Johannesburg Technical College.

“I completed my diploma in 2000. From 2000 to 2010, I worked for different IT companies. In 2010, I returned home to Flagstaff and did everything I could to survive. I farmed, raised poultry, and sold water. I came to East London for a one-year learnership with Mercedes Benz South Africa in 2016. During the year 2017, I was employed at South African Police Services as Human Resource Personnel, but after the National Pandemic of Covid19, I was moved to the front desk to do Support Servicing, capturing dockets, and fingerprinting,” he said.

From their early days in primary school, Mziwamadoda and his friends were passionate about sports. Today, Mziwamadoda’s dedication has led him to excel in Athletics with SAPS, as well as coach the prestigious Eastern Cape Provincial Basketball Team. As a sign of their success, the wheelchair basketball team ranks second and third in the region, while their Under 23 squad stands proudly as the top team nationwide. Despite losing talented players to other provinces due to inadequate facilities and sponsorships, a staggering 70% of both the under 23 and senior players hail from the Eastern Cape, showcasing the area’s undeniable talent and perseverance.

“Wheelchair basketball is my passion, and I am doing it as an outreach program to empower people with disabilities not only in sports but also in all areas of their lives. Sponsorships are handled by our own manager. As for me, athletics keeps me healthy and strong. My dream is to compete in the World Competitions and Paralympics.”

Muziwamadoda is currently ranked number one in Africa, and possibly in the top five worldwide, but this has yet to be proven. It would be great if he could participate in the World Tournaments. His wish is to have a centre or facility in Buffalo City Municipality that can cater to the sports needs of people with disabilities. Many people will be motivated and encouraged to take part in sports as a result.

“People in other parts of the Eastern Cape love sport, but they cannot participate in sports because of a lack of resources, funds, and sport active centers,” he said.

When you’re backed by a loving tribe, even sport’s tough battles are fought with newfound confidence and courage. Mzi is one such lucky person to come from a supportive family. His family is always supportive, even when he plays sports. They are there to show their support. The initiative is even supported by the community. We consider ourselves blessed because we are always surrounded by love and support.”

“All people living with disabilities should always pursue their dreams and those who love sports as I do should search around for resources that can help them reach their full potential. A healthy mind and body are built by being active in sport,” he concluded.