Chido Kerina Maenzanise Dominates Zambia Strongman Championships

Zimbabwe’s powerlifting star Chido Kerina Maenzanise reaffirmed her dominance over the weekend by winning the women’s title at the Zambia Strongman Championships in Lusaka. Her victory secures her spot at the upcoming Africa’s Strongest Championships, where she will represent Zimbabwe among the continent’s top strength athletes.

Maenzanise’s latest triumph adds to an already impressive career. Having recently defended her Africa Strong Woman title, she now holds nine gold medals and 26 career achievements, solidifying her status as one of Africa’s most accomplished female powerlifters.

The Zambia competition tested athletes with demanding events including maximum deadlift, truck pulls, sandbag loading, yoke carries, and the farmers medley. Maenzanise pushed through fatigue, demonstrating the resilience and strength that have made her a dominant figure on the continental stage.

Discussing her preparations, Maenzanise revealed that her training regime is intensifying ahead of the Africa Strong Woman and Man Championships. Her early morning sessions are fueled by Sia’s hit song “Unstoppable,” reflecting her determination to break barriers in her sport.

“The bench press is my personal favourite. I’m the only woman in Zimbabwe who can handle these weights. No one can beat me when it comes to the bench,” she said confidently as she worked through her core lifts of squat, deadlift, and bench press.

At 29, Maenzanise has emerged as Zimbabwe’s pioneering female powerlifting star. Her record includes eight golds, two silvers, and two bronze medals across national and regional competitions, establishing her as a leading figure in African powerlifting.