Nqobile Magwizi has been elected to the COSAFA Executive Committee during the regional body’s Elective Annual General Meeting held in Harare, marking a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s ongoing football revival and regional re-engagement efforts.
The elections also saw Tariq Babitseng from Botswana elected unopposed as the new COSAFA President. Babitseng praised Zimbabwe’s government and its leadership under Emmerson Mnangagwa for sustained support of football development, noting initiatives such as the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup as evidence of a “bottom-up and richest tournament in the region” that demonstrates Zimbabwe’s growing influence in Southern African football.
For Zimbabwe, Magwizi’s election is both symbolic and strategic. Having assumed the ZIFA presidency less than a year ago, he has overseen a period of deliberate re-engagement aimed at restoring the country’s credibility and competitiveness in regional football. Hosting local and continental tournaments, attracting larger crowds, and improving governance standards have gradually positioned Zimbabwe as a trusted and active member within African football structures.
“For Zimbabwean football, this occasion carries great meaning. It is another important step in our journey of re-engagement, rebuilding, and restoration. It reflects the growing confidence that the regional and continental football family continues to place in Zimbabwe, and it encourages us to continue working with discipline, unity, and purpose,” said Nqobile Magwizi.
Patrice Motsepe commended Zimbabwe for its progress, highlighting packed stadiums, the successful hosting of tournaments, and the improving domestic football environment. His remarks underscored the country’s growing stature as a regional hub for football development.
Anselem Sanyatwe reaffirmed government support, pledging continued investment in facilities and elite athlete development. “Government will continue to support football. We need to make sure that we have elite athletes and those athletes are developed at elite facilities, and it is Government’s plan to continue developing our facilities to exceptional standards,” he said.
The newly elected COSAFA leadership, including Zimbabwe’s representation through Magwizi, will serve a four-year term. The regional body aims to consolidate football development, enhance competitiveness, and strengthen collaboration across Southern Africa, positioning the sport as a vehicle for unity, youth empowerment, and economic growth across the region.
