Full Name: Robert Marawa
Date of Birth: 1 March 1973
Place of Birth: Kroonstad, Free State, South Africa
Nationality: South African
Profession: Sports Broadcaster, TV Host, Radio Personality, Journalist
Known For: Hosting major sports shows on SuperSport, Metro FM, SABC, and 947
Years Active: 1990s – Present

Who is Robert Marawa?

Robert Marawa is a multi-award-winning South African sports journalist, radio host, and TV presenter, renowned for his in-depth sports analysis, commanding voice, and fearless interviews. With a career spanning over two decades, Marawa has become one of the most respected voices in African sports media, covering everything from football and rugby to boxing and athletics.

He is best known for anchoring flagship shows like “Marawa Sports Worldwide” (MSW) and being a consistent voice in PSL and international football coverage.

Early Life and Education

Robert Marawa was born on 1 March 1973, in the rural areas of Kwazulu Natal Province. He attended Hilton College, one of the country’s top private schools, and later enrolled at the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) to study law. In an interview with Sizwe Mpofu-Welsh (pictured above), Marawa revealed that he used to hold resentment towards Hilton College because of the racial discrimination he experienced when he was still at the school.

He is the grand-child of Bishop …. who also served in the Kwazulu Natal legislature and was friends with the leader of the IFP, Mangosuthu Buthelezi. However, it doesn’t appear that his own parents were rich. They owned a farm store whose proceeds they used to send him and his siblings, one of whom is another famous TV star, Vanessa Marawa to good schools. They sacrificed a lot to afford those schools, Marawa has revealed.

Although he initially pursued a legal career, Marawa soon found his true calling in sports journalism and broadcasting, making the shift to media in the mid-1990s and quitting university in the process. He recently revealed that he plans to go back and complete his studies in law. But before taking the route in sports broadcasting, he started at the SABC doing links on the promo campaign known as “Simunye, We Are One” on SABC 1.

Career Journey and Major Media Platforms

SABC – The Starting Point

Marawa began his broadcasting career at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) in the late 1990s. He quickly gained popularity on Metro FM for his insightful sports shows and charismatic delivery.

SuperSport – Rise to Prominence

He rose to greater prominence after joining SuperSport, where he hosted Soccerzone, Thursday Night Live, and anchored coverage of major tournaments including:

• FIFA World Cup (multiple editions)
• AFCON
• UEFA Champions League
• Local PSL and CAF matches

Marawa Sports Worldwide (MSW)

In the 2010s, Marawa created and hosted Marawa Sports Worldwide, a hard-hitting sports talk show known for its exclusive interviews, breaking stories, and no-holds-barred commentary. The show aired on Metro FM, later moved to Vuma FM, Sowetan Live, and most recently, 947.

Style and Impact

Robert Marawa is known for:

• 🎙️ Authoritative Voice: A clear, engaging tone that commands attention
• 🧠 Deep Knowledge: Expert analysis of African and international sports
• 💬 Unfiltered Opinions: Willingness to challenge athletes, administrators, and federations
• 🎯 Exclusive Interviews: Often breaking major stories in South African sports

His credibility and professionalism have made him one of the most trusted voices in African sports journalism.

Challenges and Resilience

Marawa’s career has not been without controversy. He has publicly addressed contract terminations from both SuperSport and SABC, suggesting that his outspoken nature and journalistic integrity sometimes clashed with institutional interests. However, he continues to bounce back stronger, expanding his platform and maintaining a dedicated fan base.

Robert Marawa has also faced some health challenges, having been admitted in the ICU 4 times. He recently revealed that the third time was due to an attempt on his life, suggesting that he had been poisoned.

Awards and Recognitions

Over the years, Robert Marawa has received several accolades for his work:

• 🏆 Sports Journalist of the Year (multiple times)
• 🏅 Best Radio Sports Show Host – South African Radio Awards
• 🧾 Recognition for Contribution to Sports Media – PSL and SAFA Events
• 💡 Named among SA’s Most Influential Media Personalities

Personal Life

Robert Marawa is a private individual, though he has been linked to other celebrities in the past, including TV presenter Pearl Thusi. He is a father, loves music, and reading when not covering sports. He’s also authored a book, an autobiography entitled Gqimm Shelele: The Robert Marawa Story.

Robert Marawa’s Legacy in South African Sports

Marawa’s influence extends far beyond the microphone. He has:

• Elevated sports journalism in South Africa to international standards
• Championed accountability in sports governance
• Mentored young journalists through his platforms
• Amplified African athletes’ voices in global conversations

Quick Facts