The newly elected Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) executive committee, led by Nqobile Magwizi, has committed to restoring integrity and transforming football governance in the country. Meeting with the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) in Harare on Thursday, the leadership outlined its vision for Zimbabwe’s most popular sport, emphasizing transparency and corporate governance as key priorities.
Magwizi highlighted the need to build an institution that will remain stable beyond their tenure, ensuring that future leadership transitions do not disrupt progress. “We want to set up an institution that is transparent, accountable, and open for everyone,” he stated. “Football should be judged by results on the pitch, and we need to create a platform where players can thrive from the junior level to the highest stage.”
The SRC, represented by chairperson Gerald Mlotshwa, urged the new leadership to focus on player welfare, emphasizing that athletes should be at the center of football administration. “Sport is about the athletes, and they should be put at the front. Your role is to ensure you provide a good platform for them to showcase their talents,” Mlotshwa said.
In line with their reform agenda, the new ZIFA board has already initiated an audit of the association’s accounts and is working to strengthen various committees responsible for managing football affairs. Plans are also underway to call for an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) to present their roadmap to the ZIFA Congress, followed by a football indaba open to all stakeholders.
As part of their familiarization efforts, the SRC took the ZIFA leadership on a tour of the National Sports Stadium and ZIFA Village, briefing them on the current state of football infrastructure. With a commitment to transparency and long-term development, the new administration faces the challenge of rebuilding trust and ensuring football in Zimbabwe is run professionally.
