Monalisa Sibanda Prepares for Landmark Fight in the DRC as Zimbabwean Women’s Boxing Eyes Growth

Zimbabwean trailblazer Monalisa Sibanda is set to step into the ring on March 28 at the Gala de Boxe Féminine in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where she will face local fighter Marie Joelle in a non-title middleweight bout. Known as “The Queen of the Jungle,” Sibanda has built a career defined by resilience, international competition and a relentless pursuit of recognition. Her journey from Zimbabwe’s first female professional boxer in 2005 to a seasoned competitor abroad demonstrates both her talent and her determination to overcome structural challenges in the sport. With a record of seven wins and twelve losses, her statistics fail to capture the full story of a fighter shaped by limited domestic opportunities rather than a lack of skill or drive. The upcoming bout represents a continuation of her mission to maintain competitive momentum while shining a spotlight on Zimbabwean women’s boxing.

Sibanda’s career has been largely influenced by the scarcity of regular local tournaments for female boxers in Zimbabwe, a situation the authorities acknowledge and aim to address. Over the years, she and other fighters have sought opportunities across borders in countries such as Kenya, Zambia, Malawi, South Africa, and the DRC. These international outings have allowed her to gain exposure, hone her craft, and prove her capabilities against varied opponents. Her previous fight in the DRC, where she defeated Mary Mustafa, showcased her ability to perform under challenging circumstances, a skill that could prove decisive against Joelle, a relatively unknown opponent whose experience on international platforms is limited. The reliance on home support and familiarity with the venue often gives local fighters an edge, making Sibanda’s preparation and adaptability key factors in the upcoming contest.

Despite these challenges, Sibanda remains one of Zimbabwe’s most accomplished female boxers. She holds a Women International Boxing Association title, a distinction that underscores her skill, though structural gaps in regional competition have restricted her ability to defend the belt. Extended periods of inactivity, often resulting from a lack of opponents, have created additional obstacles in her career trajectory. Nonetheless, her persistence has kept her relevant in the sport, with every international fight reinforcing her standing and resilience. Her approach highlights the dedication required to sustain a professional career amid limited resources, and her commitment continues to inspire emerging female fighters in Zimbabwe and beyond.

The broader landscape of Zimbabwean boxing shows potential for change, with signs of a growing domestic platform for professional competition. Although no major local tournaments have taken place this year, the first significant event is slated for April 11 in Harare, marking Zimbabwe’s Independence Day celebrations. Promoted by Delta Force in collaboration with the Zimbabwe National Boxing and Wrestling Control Board, the event is expected to provide vital exposure for local fighters and may catalyze a resurgence of professional boxing in the country. For Sibanda, these developments offer hope for more meaningful domestic opportunities, including a long-awaited defense of her WIBA title. In the short term, however, her focus remains on the immediate challenge of the DRC bout, where a strong performance could reinforce her international reputation and open doors to further engagements.

Zimbabwean boxing prospects have also been active regionally, with mixed results in recent contests in South Africa. Aliyah Phiri faced a setback, suffering a second-round TKO loss to Japan-based South African John Masamba, highlighting the high stakes and unpredictable nature of international competition. Meanwhile, Ndabezinhle Phiri, nicknamed “Good News,” maintained his unbeaten record, defeating George Kandulo in the third round of a scheduled six-round bout. Based in South Africa and trained by Brad Dayan Norman, Ndabezinhle Phiri continues to emerge as a strong contender for international titles, reflecting the growing depth of Zimbabwean boxing talent. These developments illustrate both the challenges and opportunities facing Zimbabwean fighters as they navigate the regional and global professional boxing scene.

Monalisa Sibanda’s upcoming fight in the DRC represents both a personal milestone and a broader statement for Zimbabwean women’s boxing. Her ability to perform under pressure, adapt to foreign environments and maintain a disciplined approach highlights the resilience required to succeed professionally. Beyond personal achievement, her continued international presence underscores the need for stronger domestic structures that support female boxers. With the potential resurgence of local tournaments and a growing international reputation, Sibanda is positioned to play a pivotal role in elevating the sport. The March 28 bout will not only test her skills against Marie Joelle, but also serve as a defining moment in her ongoing journey to secure recognition, opportunity and progress for Zimbabwean boxing.