Tawanda Chirewa heads into his first AFCON on a deeply personal mission: to honour his Zimbabwean roots and build a lasting legacy with the Warriors. Though born and raised in England, the Wolves forward says his upbringing was unmistakably Zimbabwean — shaped by family, language, food and culture.
Over the past 18 months, Chirewa has emerged as a key figure for Zimbabwe, scoring three goals in 11 internationals. Now 22, he sees AFCON in Morocco as the stage to give back to the country that defines his identity. Choosing Zimbabwe over England at youth level was, for him, an instinctive decision driven by family values and the influence of his late grandfather.
His bond with Zimbabwe runs through everyday life — from sadza and oxtail to braais in all weather, and constant Zimbabwean music at home. That sense of belonging fuels his motivation on the pitch.
For Chirewa, wearing the Warriors badge is more than football. It is about family, heritage and purpose. At AFCON, he wants to show the world Zimbabwe’s quality — and take his first steps toward becoming a national legend.