Gorimbo builds library in home village

Innocent Kurira, [email protected]
MIXED martial arts star Themba Gorimbo is making a difference both in and out of the ring.
Gorimbo hit the headlines last year after being gifted a house in Miami, United States of America, by actor and wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, following his first career Octagon win at UFC Vegas 73.
Now, in a philanthropic move, Gorimbo is giving back to his community by building a solar-powered library at his Muvuti Village in Bikita District, Masvingo province, with free 24-hour internet access for research.
He took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that construction of the library has started.
“Phase one of my village library project here in Zimbabwe is complete. Foundation done and first brick work has started.
“This library is accessible to anyone and everyone who wishes to study and be something in life. Going to help all young kids who live in the village to study at night because it is solar-powered and has 24-hour access to anyone and everyone who wishes to study and be something in life. This project will help provide free internet access too to the villagers,” Gorimbo posted.
Gorimbo’s journey has been inspiring, with the early loss of both his parents, time spent in illegal diamond mining in Manicaland, and a difficult start to his professional fighting career.
Tragedy first struck when his mother passed away when he was just nine years old. His father passed away four years later, leaving him orphaned.
Left with no one to turn to, he found himself immersed in the dangerous world of illegal diamond mining in Marange, a feverish frenzy that had then gripped Manicaland. The cat-and-mouse game with the police became an unwelcome companion in this treacherous pursuit, pushing him further into the depths of despair.
It wasn’t until he stumbled upon the movie Never Back Down that the spark of inspiration ignited within him. In 2010, he mustered the courage to step into the realm of sport fighting, and in 2013, he embraced a professional career in the Octagon, the UFC.
The path to greatness was, however, still far from being smooth and Gorimbo faced immense struggles and setbacks. His first fight in the UFC ended in defeat and the world seemed to lose faith in his abilities. But beneath the surface of despair, a fire was burning, a fire that drove him to pick himself up, dust off the ashes of defeat, and rise again with an unyielding spirit.
With sheer determination and courage, Gorimbo battled his way back into the spotlight.
He revealed the bleak reality of having only US$7 in his bank account before securing a remarkable victory in the Octagon Vegas 73 fight against Takashi Sato of Japan. This triumph was extraordinary as he battled flu during the match demonstrating the determination of a true warrior.
He has written his own inspirational story that will linger in the minds of young Zimbabweans. Gorimbo continues winning hearts on and off the ring.
The 33-year-old fighter claimed his third UFC victory in a thrilling match against American opponent Ramiz Brahimaj in a welterweight combat late last month.
As Zimbabwe’s sole representative in UFC, Gorimbo is a trailblazer and an inspiration. He is showing that nothing is impossible and with each victory, he is showing that Zimbabweans are capable of achieving greatness, both on and off the playing field. He is an inspiration to young people, showing them that with hard work and perseverance, they too can reach the top of their chosen field.
He is a true Zimbabwean hero, making his country proud with every punch and every kick. — @innocentskizoe
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