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The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) is yet to finalise the venue of the Warriors’ 2026 World Cup qualifier against Nigeria on 20 November.
ZIFA Normalisation Committee chairperson Lincoln Mutasa told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zifa-in-warriors-conundrum">The Sunday Mail</a> that the senior team may host the Super Eagles in Rwanda. Said Mutasa:
<blockquote>
We are working on hosting Nigeria in Rwanda and we are going to inform football stakeholders about it once discussions have been finalised.
</blockquote>
The Warriors take on Rwanda in Kigali on 13 November before hosting Nigeria a week later.
Mutasa conceded that ZIFA will incur huge costs in staging the Warriors’ assignments “home away from home”. He said:
<blockquote>
Yes, there are financial losses to be incurred but this is a sticky situation that we find ourselves in.
What saddens us the most is that supporters will miss an opportunity to watch their beloved team at home after a long time without international football.
While we would have wanted to get revenue from the match, what is important for us is to give footballers a rare opportunity to play the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
You can never put a cost to that.
Naturally, the football association foots its own bills, if it is within their means, but help from our partners will be accepted.
</blockquote>
Last week, the Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Deputy Minister Emily Jesaya told senators that ZIFA was yet to notify the Ministry about plans to host the Warriors match in Rwanda.
Meanwhile, ZIFA failed to arrange international friendly matches for the Warriors in the recent international break.
The Warriors ended up playing a practice match against a Northern Region select side, which they lost 3-1.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

ZIFA Yet To Secure Venue For Warriors' Home 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Mighty Warriors players have reportedly received bonuses from ZIFA for participating in the 2023 COSAFA Women’s Championship which took place in South Africa from 4 to 15 October 2023.
<a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2023/10/20/mighty-warriors-get-their-bonuses-for-participating-in-cosafa-womens-championship/">Soccer24</a> reported that the Zimbabwean national women’s football team players received over US$2 000 each in daily allowances, winning bonuses and appearance fees.
The players will not receive any money from COSAFA after the regional football body announced this week that the tournament had no sponsors.
Mighty Warriors goalkeeper Cynthia Shonga, who was named the best goalkeeper at the tournament, and other individual award winners, received R20 000 each from COSAFA.
Meanwhile, the Mighty Warriors finished fourth at the tournament despite having spent the past two years without participating in international football tournaments.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mighty Warriors Players Receive Bonuses From ZIFA For Participating At COSAFA Tournament

Former Ngezi Platinum Stars chief executive officer Nyasha Kadenge is reportedly set to be officially unveiled as the new ZIFA chief executive officer on Monday, 09 October.
Kadenge was fired by Ngezi Platinum Stars in early May 2022 after almost six years at the helm. The club, however, did not disclose why she was relieved of her duties.
After she left Ngezi, Kadenge briefly served as an administrator at the Tanzanian outfit Singida Fountain Gate in Dodoma before returning to Zimbabwe.
<a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/kadenge-lands-zifa-ceo-post">The Sunday Mail</a> reported that Kadenge emerged as a surprise choice for the post at the end of interviews conducted by the ZIFA Normalisation Committee.
The 38-year-old was reportedly initially not on the shortlist drafted by the Normalisation Committee last week.
Surprisingly, she was chosen for the role ahead of Sheasham’s Violet Njubane, Liberty Maidza, Owen Mugwagwa, Yvonne Manwa and Luckson Muradzikwa.
The Sunday Mail reported sources as saying Kadenge was a compromise candidate for the ZIFA CEO post among influential members of the Normalisation Committee. Said the source:
<blockquote>
In the second round of interviews, candidates were asked to make presentations on how they intend to turn around ZIFA.
It appears some of the influential members of the Normalisation Committee had their preferences for the CEO post. For instance, Sikumbuzo Ndebele favoured Luckson Muradzikwa, Cynthia Malaba wanted Nyasha Kadenge and there were some who wanted Violet Njubane.
So, in the end, it was agreed that the candidate had to be a woman and a compromise was reached to appoint Nyasha as CEO. Violet will be the women’s football administrator.
</blockquote>
Kadenge’s tenure as ZIFA CEO will end on 30 June 2024, when the mandate of the Normalisation Committee is also expected to end.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Nyasha Kadenge Appointed ZIFA Chief Executive Officer | Report

The FIFA-appointed ZIFA Normalisation Committee says it has completed interviews for a new chief executive officer (CEO).
ZIFA has been without a substantive CEO ever since the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) suspended Joseph Mamutse in 2021.
Mamutse was later reinstated but he never resumed his duties after he sided with the Felton Kamambo-led board which was suspended by the SRC in November 2021. His ZIFA contract lapsed on 31 August.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zifa-set-to-appoint-new-ceo">The Sunday Mail</a>, ZIFA Normalisation Committee chairperson, Lincoln Mutasa, said they expect the new ZIFA CEO to assume duties within the next two weeks. He said:
<blockquote>
Yes, we have been conducting interviews this week (last week). We shortlisted some names and then we invited people for the interviews.
After the interviews, we will now look at the results and if it is a tight race, we will go back to the candidates and ask those topping the list to come back and make some presentations, and we hope that next week (this week) we can be able to sit down with the successful candidate and table our offer and negotiate the package.
It is not always that the successful candidate will accept the offer, but we hope he or she will accept what we will table. In the event that there is no agreement, we then go to the next successful one.
</blockquote>
Initially, ZIFA had hoped to have the CEO in office by 01 October but the Committee was distracted with arranging matches for the Warriors and Mighty Warriors.
The Warriors travelled to Botswana to play a friendly match against the host nation on 30 September, while the Mighty Warriors are in South Africa for the 2023 COSAFA Women’s Championship.
Mutasa declined to reveal names of those who had been shortlisted for the role but The Sunday Mail cited sources as saying the Normalisation Committee has settled for Owen Mugwagwa, Ngezi Platinum Stars’ Yvonne Mapika Manwa, Liberty Maidza and Violet Njubane of Premiership newboys Sheasham.
Njubane is believed to be the front-runner as she reportedly has the backing of FIFA head of development programmes Solomon Mudege.
If she lands the post, she will be the second female ZIFA chief executive officer after Henrietta Rushwaya.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIFA Set To Appoint New Chief Executive Officer

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/09/21/baltemar-brito-appointed-warriors-coach-until-june-2024/">recently appointed Warriors technical team</a>, led by Baltemar Brito, has announced the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_National_Football_Team/">Warriors</a> squad consisting of local players that is set to take on Botswana in an invitational match at the end of this month. The team comprises talented players from various prominent teams in the current Zimbabwe premiership football competition, including Ngezi Platinum, Highlanders, Manica Diamonds, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Dynamos_Football_Club/">Dynamos</a>, and others.
Baltemar Brito, who currently serves as the coach for Highlanders FC, has been appointed as the interim Warriors coach until June 30 of next year. He will be assisted by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Bongani_Mafu/">Bongani Mafu</a> and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Genesis_Mangombe/">Genesis Mangombe</a> in his coaching role. He was appointed by the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Football_Association_(ZIFA)/">ZIFA</a> Normalisation Committee to prepare the Zimbabwe senior men’s national football team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, commencing in November.
<h3>The squad</h3>
<h4>Goalkeepers</h4>
Donovan Bernard (Chicken Inn), Nelson Chadya (Ngezi Platinum Stars)
<h4>Defenders</h4>
Andrew Mbeba, Peter Muduhwa (Highlanders), Godknows Murwira (Caps United), Frank Makarati (Dynamos), Farai Banda (Manica Diamonds), Qadr Amini (Ngezi Platinum Stars), Xolani Ndlovu (Chicken Inn)
<h4>Midfielders</h4>
Brighton Manhire (Highlanders), Sherpard Mhlanga (Chicken Inn), Brian Banda (FC Platinum), Tanaka Shandirwa (Dynamos), Mthokozisi Msebe (Bulawayo Chiefs), Donald Mudadi (Dynamos), Davison Marowa (Herentals), Walter Musona (FC Platinum), Tinotenda Benza (Herentals)
<h4>Forwards</h4>
William Manondo (Caps United), Fortune Binzi (Manica Diamonds), Obriel Chirinda (Bulawayo Chiefs)
The upcoming friendly match scheduled for September 30 is a part of Botswana’s Independence Day festivities. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Baltemar Brito Has Announced The Warriors Squad To Play Botswana This Month

The ZIFA Normalisation Committee (ZIFA NC) has approached Highlanders Football Club, seeking permission to appoint their coach Brito Baltemar Jose Oliveira as the Warriors’ boss on an interim basis.
A letter dated 19 September 2023 and addressed to the Highlanders Chairman, by ZIFA NC Chairman Lincoln Mutasa confirms the interest in the Brazilian. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
The Normalization Committee would like to request your Executive permission to engage one of your employees in the name of Brito Baltemar Jose Oliveira for a possible appointment as the interim Senior Men National Teams Coach.
Whereas he has indicated he is in permanent employ of your esteemed organization.
It is in that light of integrity we hereby pray you shall find it beneficial to release him for envisaged national duty during this interim Normalization period.
</blockquote>
Brito, who arrived in the country last year, has been fairly successful at Highlanders, with the club in second position on the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League table.
Highlanders were also the only team that remained unbeaten during the first half of this campaign.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIFA Committee Wants Highlanders Gaffer As Warriors Coach

The ZIFA Normalisation Committee has called for lengthy bans to be imposed on football fans found guilty of violence at stadiums during matches.
This comes after rowdy Highlanders fans forced the abandonment of the high-profile league match against Dynamos and on Sunday, 10 September.
Bosso fans invaded the pitch during the first half of the match and chased after police officers, protesting what they believed were injustices by the referee.
In a statement released this Thursday, ZIFA also revealed that it was lobbying for an Exclusive Focus Group (EFG) to crack down on offensive songs and tribal or racial chants at football matches. ZIFA said:
<blockquote>
The association is grateful to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for apprehending suspected perpetrators of hooliganism at Barbourfields Stadium.
It is our sincere hope that criminals found guilty of disorderly conduct will face the full wrath of the law.
Further, we will push for further enforcement of lengthy stadium bans for anyone found causing trouble at stadiums.
Football is a team sport, and supporters should also play their part to keep the game civilized.
As a commercial sport, football needs order so that sponsors can feel proud to associate their brands with it.
That becomes extremely difficult if barbaric acts of pitch invasion and violence are a part of our game.
As the association, we will continue engaging all concerned stakeholders so that we can come up with foolproof solutions to the eternal challenge of hooliganism.
The association is also concerned by the offensive songs and chants peculiar to our football.
Going forward, the association is lobbying for an Exclusive Focus Group (EFG) to crackdown on offensive songs and tribal or racial chants which include offensive gestures and displaying of offensive messaging that cause feelings of discomfort and discrimination to rival supporters.
</blockquote>
ZIFA urged clubs and other football stakeholders to increase education and awareness campaigns to enlighten supporters on the dangers of violence at football matches.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIFA Wants Lengthy Stadium Bans For Football Hooligans, Crackdown On Tribal Chants

Former Warriors midfielder, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Alois_Bunjira/">Alois Bunjira</a>, has urged Knowledge Musona and Khama Billiat to reconsider their retirement from international football now that the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has new management. 
His remarks came after the Federation of International Football (FIFA) had lifted the suspension on Zimbabwe and appointed a four-member normalisation committee to take over the day-to-day running of ZIFA until June 2024. The committee is composed of chairperson Lincon Mutasa, Sikhumbuzo Ndebele, Rosemary Mugadza, and Nyasha Sanyamandu. Mutasa, a former Dynamos chairman, Mugadza, a former Mighty Warriors coach, Ndebele, a former Highlanders defender, and Sanyamandwe, a member of the British Sports Lawyers Association and a legal practitioner, were selected to serve on the committee. The suspension of ZIFA has been in effect since Monday 10 July 2022.
In a Facebook post seen by Pindula News, Bunjira expressed his belief that the tried and tested duo of Musona and Billiat would play a critical role in Zimbabwe’s quest to qualify for the World Cup. With limited time for preparation, he believes it is necessary to rely on established players to increase the team’s chances of success. He said:
<blockquote>
Now that international football is back, we have a normalisation committee to steer football forward, after the dark days of the past years, and Zimbabwe being placed in a fair World Cup group C, I think it is a perfect platform for Captain Knowledge Musona and Khama Billiat to come out of their forced retirement and carry the torch with the warriors for one last push, while we sort out our development structures, to groom their future replacements.
We all know why Musona and Billiat retired from the Warriors. All that is sorted now. The culprits are gone. Between now and the World Cup qualifiers, we don’t have time for experiments. I believe we now have a committee that will put in place our junior national teams where younger players are developed and groomed for the Warriors. We also have the CHAN and COSSFA tournaments where experiments and grooming is done. The Warriors is a product and window of what has been developed.
</blockquote>
Bunjira believes that Zimbabwe has been drawn into a reasonably fair <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/07/13/zimbabwe-nigeria-sa-in-group-c-of-world-cup-2026-qualifiers/">group for the World Cup</a> which is comprised of Nigeria, South Africa, Benin, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and Lesotho. He believes that with the inclusion of all the best players on the team and proper preparation, the country can put up a good fight. Additionally, he emphasised the importance of tapping into the deep reserves of football talent in the diaspora, across the world.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2021/011/15/it-was-all-a-dream-khama-billiat-retires-from-international-football/">Billiat retired from international football</a> after Zimbabwe’s 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Ethiopia in November 2021. A highly regarded player for the Warriors, he scored important goals, made assists, and displayed crowd-pleasing dribbling skills. It was expected he would retire after the AFCON finals in 2022. While he stated that he was retiring to allow other players a chance to represent Zimbabwe, there were rumours that he quit over the manner the team was being governed.
Knowledge Musona, known as “The Smiling Assassin,” <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2022/05/19/knowledge-musona-retires-from-international-football/">announced his retirement from international football</a> on Thursday, 19 May 2022. The Saudi Arabia-based striker stated that he is quitting the Warriors to concentrate on his club career and to allow other players a chance to represent Zimbabwe.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Bunjira: It's Time For Musona And Billiat To Come Out Of Forced Retirement

The Federation of International Football (FIFA) has appointed a four-member normalisation committee to take over the day-to-day running of ZIFA until June 2024.
The appointment of the normalisation committee came after FIFA announced the lifting of the suspension on the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) on Monday 10 July 2022.
Normalisation committees play a significant role in ensuring compliance with FIFA regulatory requirements.
The four-member normalisation committee was unveiled by FIFA Head of development programs in Africa Solomon Mudege on Tuesday, 11 July.
The committee comprises chairperson Lincon Mutasa, Sikhumbuzo Ndebele, Rosemary Mugadza and Nyasha Sanyamandu.
Mutasa is a former Dynamos chairman, Mugadza is a former Mighty Warriors coach, Ndebele is a former Highlanders defender, while Sanyamandwe is a member of the British Sports Lawyers Association and legal practitioner.
Below are the duties of the normalisation committee:
<ul>
<li>To run the daily affairs of ZIFA</li>
<li>To restructure the ZIFA administration</li>
<li>To establish, with the help of FIFA, a collaboration agreement between the Ministry of Sport/the SRC and ZIFA, which will define the responsibilities and objectives of each 
party, including (but not exclusively) on the topic of sexual harassment</li>
<li>To review the ZIFA Statutes and Electoral Code to ensure their compliance with the FIFA Statutes and requirements, and to ensure their adoption by the ZIFA Congress</li>
<li>To act as an electoral committee in order to organise and conduct elections of a new ZIFA Board based on the newly aligned ZIFA Statutes and Electoral Code</li>
<li>To ensure a proper financial handover to the new ZIFA Board</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

FIFA Unveils Four-member ZIFA Normalisation Committee

A delegation from FIFA is set to arrive in Zimbabwe tomorrow (Monday), to finalise the appointment of a normalisation committee to run the affairs of the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA).
A normalisation committee usually consists of members who will be appointed jointly by FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), subject to an eligibility check carried out by the FIFA Review Committee in accordance with the Fifa governance regulations.
The imminent visit by the FIFA delegation is the second in two months and comes a few days before the Bureau of the FIFA Council is scheduled to meet later this week.
The FIFA Council is the main decision-making body of the organisation in the intervals of the FIFA Congress.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/thestandard/sport/article/200013486/big-week-for-zim-football-as-fifa-visits-again">The Standard</a> reported sources as saying the FIFA Council scheduled for later this week will review Zimbabwe’s suspension from international football competitions. Said a source:
<blockquote>
FIFA will be in the country on Monday to finalise the normalisation committee ahead of the FIFA council meeting later in the week to review Zimbabwe’s suspension.
This follows consultations earlier in April with the SRC which included CAF.
</blockquote>
In April, FIFA sent a delegation to Zimbabwe on a fact-finding mission.
The delegation consisted of Zimbabwean national Solomon Mudege, who is FIFA’s head of development programmes Africa, regional development officer David Fani and senior governance service manager Sarah Solémalé.
CAF was also represented during the three-day fact-finding mission.
The delegation held meetings with representatives from the Premier Soccer League, the Footballers’ Union of Zimbabwe and other pertinent parties in a bid to gather facts on the ground.
Zimbabwe national teams and clubs have not participated in international competitions for the last 16 months following the country’s suspension by FIFA.
FIFA suspended Zimbabwe after the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) suspended the ZIFA board led by Felton Kamambo for several alleged violations which include sexual harassment of female referees and failure to account for public funds.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Another FIFA Delegation Set To Visit Zimbabwe

The Gerald Mlotshwa-led Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has expressed satisfaction over recent engagements with officials from FIFA, CAF and COSAFA.
The officials from FIFA, CAF and COSAFA were in the country this week on a fact-finding mission.
In a statement released on Thursday night, SRC said it held “productive meetings” with the officials and they broadly agreed on the next steps to address ZIFA’s current situation. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
Throughout the week, FIFA and CAF engaged with various stakeholders and officials involved in Zimbabwean football to gather their perspectives.
A common sentiment among these stakeholders was the need for strong, lawful governance structures to support Zimbabwe’s return to international football, as well as a commitment to implementing necessary reforms for the sport’s future development and success in the country.
The SRC has also been involved in productive discussions with FIFA and CAF, including COSAFA, with a mutual goal of resolving the issues surrounding the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA).
The conversations have been marked by good faith from all parties and a genuine interest in advancing solutions.
The outcomes of these discussions have been promising, with the SRC, CAF, and FIFA generally agreeing on the next steps to address ZIFA’s current situation.
… The commission deeply appreciates the firm support and positions taken by all stakeholders involved in this week’s consultations.
These stakeholders have been clear about the changes needed in Zimbabwean football and have collectively called for a swift resolution to ZIFA’s challenges.
</blockquote>
The SRC said will provide further updates to the public on the matter in the first week of May 2023.
The SRC did not reveal the issues they agreed on with representatives from both FIFA and CAF.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200010452/src-satisfied-with-fifa-caf-engagement">NewsDay</a> reported sources as saying both parties accepted that there is no way back for ousted ZIFA president Felton Kamambo and some members of his board.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

SRC Optimistic After Meeting FIFA, CAF Delegation

A six-member FIFA delegation is expected to arrive in Zimbabwe on Monday morning in a move that may culminate in the readmission of Zimbabwe to the international football community.
The delegation, which includes officials from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), will meet the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC).
The FIFA and CAF officials will spend three days in the country.
The <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/fifa-descend-on-zim">Sunday Mail</a> reported that FIFA head of development programmes in Africa, Solomon Mudege; the senior member associations governance manager, Sarah Solemale and David Fani, who heads the FIFA regional office for Southern Africa, are among the officials expected in Zimbabwe.
CAF director of member associations Sarah Mukuna and COSAFA president Artur de Almeida e Silva are part of the delegation.
The report says there is a possibility of FIFA appointing a Normalisation Committee to oversee the reform process, which would then culminate in elections to choose a new leadership. The Sunday Mail reported a source as saying:
<blockquote>
As you know by now, FIFA and SRC have been discussing ZIFA matters continuously over the last year, with most of those meetings being virtual.
Only two weeks ago, another virtual meeting between the parties was held and it seems that was the breakthrough indaba in that the idea of a Normalisation Committee seemed to have gained traction.
The FIFA delegation wants to take time to hear from the SRC board on the situation at ZIFA and get an on-the-ground appreciation of what is obtaining in Zimbabwe football.
It appears that all the key parties to the discussions agreed that at this point the best solution for ZIFA is a Normalisation Committee that will oversee fresh elections within ZIFA, as well as ensure that the new executive implements the roadmap.
</blockquote>
FIFA suspended Zimbabwe on 25 February 2022 for alleged third-party interference after the SRC had suspended the ZIFA board led by Felton Kamambo on 16 November 2021.
The other ZIFA executives suspended are Philemon Machana, Bryton Malandule and Joseph Mamutse.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

FIFA Delegation Expected In Zimbabwe On Monday

FIFA is investigating a second ZIFA official over sexual harassment allegations following former referees boss Obert Zhoya’s five-year ban imposed by the world football governing body in 2022.
This was revealed by the Minister of Sports Kirsty Coventry when she appeared before parliamentarians on Wednesday to respond to questions on Zimbabwe’s ban from international football.
According to the <a href="https://www.theindependent.co.zw/sport/article/200009563/fifa-probe-zifa-board-member">Zimbabwe Independent</a>, Coventry reiterated that there was no way back for the ZIFA board members that were dismissed by the SRC.
The suspended officials include Felton Kamambo, Bryton Malandule, Philemon Machana and Stanley Chapeta. Said Coventry:
<blockquote>
For clarity, the reasons that the SRC stepped in and suspended the board were three main reasons.
The first reason was that Government had given ZIFA about US$2 million which has never been accounted for.
Secondly, four female referees have come forward and given their statements to the police and they have been investigated. Three of those members were on the board.
One of those members has already received a lifetime ban from FIFA from their own investigations that have been done over the last two months with an S25 000 fine.
FIFA is now investigating the second member that was on the board that was sexually abusing and harassing these women.
FIFA knew that this was happening in 2018/19 when these women filed an appeal with FIFA and got no response.
They then came to Government, – SRC, Government and my office worked together with these women to ensure that police reports were done and statements were made.
We then went back to FIFA and CAF and we requested for them to step in but they refused.
We then stepped in and suspended the executive for the things that I have just shared with Members of Parliament, which I have shared previously.
</blockquote>
FIFA found Zhoya guilty of sexually harassing three female referees and banned him as well as fining him US$20 000.
Meanwhile, Coventry said the government has accepted FIFA’s decision to suspend Zimbabwe from international football. She added:
<blockquote>
We have never asked them to lift it (the ban). We do not want them to lift it at this point until we have cleared and cleaned up our soccer.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009522/ed-demands-re-run-in-violence-hotspots">Pindula News</a>

FIFA Probes ZIFA Board Member Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

FIFA upheld the suspension of Zimbabwe from international football saying the ban can only be lifted when or if the southern African country has implemented its recommendations.
Zimbabwe was suspended in February 2022 after the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) suspended the ZIFA board headed by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Felton_Kamambo">Felton Kamambo</a> over alleged maladministration and sexual abuse of female referees. 
FIFA said the suspension of the Felton Kamambo-led board constituted government interference with the sport.
The ban on Zimbabwe can only be lifted when the Felton Kamambo-led board has been reinstated, FIFA declared.
An overwhelming 199 over 200 people voted for the upholding of the suspension of Zimbabwe at the FIFA Congress being held in Rwanda. 
Meanwhile, SRC has said it did not apply for readmission. SRC board chairman, Gerald Mlotshwa said the commission’s immediate focus remains to oversee the implementation of key reforms which were recommended by the ZIFA Restructuring Committee before any efforts to have the suspension lifted. 
The SRC also says they are no longer in a position to legally reinstate Kamambo since he was recalled by the ZIFA Congress in April 2022. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

FIFA Upholds Zimbabwe Suspension

Football fans have pleaded with President Emmerson Mnangagwa to intervene in the dispute between the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) and the suspended Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) board to ensure that the sanctions imposed on the country by FIFA are lifted.
Zimbabwe national football teams and clubs are banned from participating in international football tournaments after the country was suspended by FIFA in early 2022.
The suspension came after the SRCled by Gerald Mlotshwa dismissed ZIFA board members including its president, Felton Kamambo over a litany of allegations including corruption and the sexual harassment of female referees.
In a recent statement, Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters’ Association (ZNSSA) secretary-general Joseph Mutawu said Mnangagwa should intervene to end the impasse between SRC and ZIFA. He said:
<blockquote>
We urge and plead with our listening President ED Mnangagwa to chip in, reign in Mlotshwa and Kamambo and knock sense in their heads.
</blockquote>
Football stars such as Marshall Munetsi, coaches, administrators, and parliamentarians have all been calling for Mlotshwa to reinstate Kamambo so that the country can return to international football.
Mlotshwa and the SRC have made it clear that getting the FIFA suspension lifted is not a priority. Said ZNSSA:
<blockquote>
All these calls from the football-loving community and the oversight from Parliament fell on deaf ears of Gerald Mlotshwa-led SRC.
Mlotshwa has responded by saying that Zimbabwe was not in a hurry to get the FIFA suspension lifted. Like seriously Mlotshwa?
This was a rude and unthoughtful statement. How dare you Mlotshwa? As supporters, we have now realised that the road which was taken by SRC is leading us to nowhere.
The only expected destination in this case is leading Zimbabwe football into oblivion, destruction, extinction and misery.
That cannot happen under our watch as supporters and we demand that SRC end this madness.
</blockquote>
Mlotshwa recently said it was now impossible to reinstate Kamambo saying doing so will be in violation of the ZIFA constitution and SRC Act. He said:
<blockquote>
It is a fact that Felton Kamambo is no longer the ZIFA president, having been recalled by his own congress.
It follows, logically, that the SRC is not able to reinstate him to that position. 
Any such attempt would, ironically, be blatantly unlawful in terms of ZIFA’s current constitution, as well as the SRC Act.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Football Fans Urge Mnangagwa To "Knock Some Sense" Into Gerald Mlotshwa

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) says it will go ahead with the launch of the National League this year despite opposition from some domestic football stakeholders.
ZIFA last month advised the four regions that it had resolved to embark on the National League in line with section 10 of the ZIFA Constitution.
However, the ZIFA’s four regions, namely Central, Eastern, Northern and Southern, last month wrote to ZIFA raising several concerns and asked for the National League’s kick-off to be deferred to 2024.
Speaking after the association’s Executive Committee on Friday, Acting ZIFA president Gift Banda, said:
<blockquote>
This is an ongoing exercise. We are engaging almost everyone and we are not leaving anyone behind solely because the National Division One League is a constitutional issue that we haven’t adhered to for the past 10 years.
We can’t wait any longer because it’s affecting the quality of our football. So we are engaging everyone so that we see things with the same eye and sing from the same hymn book as we move forward.
This National Division One is also one of the recommendations that are coming from the Restructuring Committee and also a recommendation that we as ZIFA members made 10 years ago.
When this was done, it was done with the mind of making our football bigger and better.
</blockquote>
ZIFA has invited four clubs from each region to join the inaugural National League.
The bottom four clubs that were relegated from the Premiership are also expected to join the new league.
Banda said an interim executive committee will be set up with members to be seconded from the regions that currently make the country’s four division one leagues.
He said issues of sponsorship and fixtures were still being worked out.

National League Will Make Our Football Bigger And Better - Acting ZIFA President

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has deemed Sakubva Stadium in Mutare unfit to host Premier Soccer League (PSL) matches due to the poor state of the turf.
The <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/sakubva-stadium-condemned-again/">Manica Post</a> reports that a ZIFA grounds inspection team, under the First Instance Body banner, comprising ZIFA chief operations officer, Xolisani Gwesela, ZIFA technical director, Wilson Mukede and Premier Soccer League man in charge of competitions, Elisha Mandireva were in Mutare to inspect Sakubva Stadium ahead of the start of the 2023 PSL season.
In 2022, Sakubva Stadium was condemned towards the season halfway mark after it had deteriorated to unacceptable standards due to overuse.
City of Mutare spokesperson, Spren Mutiwi, said he was unaware that ZIFA had condemned the stadium again. He said:
<blockquote>
We are not aware that the grounds inspection committee from ZIFA was here. We are not even aware of their decision to condemn the match venue.
We have a plan to replace the turf and I am sure the process is at an advanced stage even though I might need to get finer details on the work covered so far in that regard.
</blockquote>
Manica Diamonds chairman, Masimba Chihowa, expressed concern over the latest development, saying the club cannot afford to host home matches in Harare or Triangle. Said Chihowa:
<blockquote>
We are worried, shuttered and devastated that the stadium cannot be used after the condemnation by the grounds inspection committee.
What is of great concern for us is that the stadium was condemned because of overuse when Manica Diamonds, the only Premiership club in Mutare, has never had a training session at Sakubva Stadium in recent months.
As a team, we are worried about which match venue shall we register as our home ground ahead of the start of the season.
We had not factored in any budget relating to travelling outside the city for our home matches.
If you look at the options available, it be very costly for the team. Travelling more than 300km to Triangle or Harare is not within our budget.
We just hope and pray that something will be done to restore the good quality of the turf before the start of the season.
</blockquote>
The 2023 Castle Lager Premiership season commences next month.

Sakubva Stadium Condemned, Again

The Zimbabwe Soccer Coaches Association (ZISCA) says it is in support of the implementation of standardisation of coaches by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA).
ZISCA vice-chairman, Philani Mabhena, said they will be engaging ZIFA about how the standardisation will be implemented in the absence of CAF courses in the country. Mabhena said:
<blockquote>
We’re not saying ZIFA is wrong in implementing Club Licensing. Without a doubt, Club Licencing seeks to improve the game and as ZISCA we want it further administered to the core.
If you look at Club Licencing, it doesn’t hinder coaches that haven’t done CAF A Licence and that is why we are seeking to have a dialogue with ZIFA to communicate, share and seek clarity on how best to move forwards in absence of CAF courses in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
ZIFA is currently suspended from international football by FIFA and therefore cannot apply for CAF courses.
ZISCA said they have noted that few CAF courses have been held in neighbouring countries where they give first preference to their nationals.
Mabhena added that as ZISCA, they are hoping that the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), as well as ZIFA, will speed up the process of getting the FIFA suspension lifted. | <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/zimbabwe-soccer-coaches-association-in-support-of-standardisation/">The Sunday News</a>

Zimbabwe Soccer Coaches Association To Seek Clarity From ZIFA On Standardisation

Former Highlanders captain and Warriors centre-back Dazzy Kapenya has criticised the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) for barring from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) coaches who do not have the minimum qualification of CAF A licence.
Kapenya said it doesn’t make sense for ZIFA to implement the measure now when it is not running such courses.
In 2017, ZIFA introduced regulations that require premiership coaches and their assistants to be in possession of a CAF A badge as the minimum qualification.
Division One coaches should have a minimum of CAF B while assistant coaches are required to be holders of a CAF C or ZIFA Level Four licence.
In the Second Division, a coach should have a Caf C licence while his assistant should have a Level Three qualification.
Kapenya, who was the PSL 2002 Soccer Star of the Year, said ZIFA’s decision to enforce the regulations is a huge blow to young coaches. He said:
<blockquote>
I’m a CAF C licence holder and I would naturally want to develop as a coach and attain a CAF A badge but how can I do so when ZIFA is not offering such courses?
This failure by the association to offer such training courses has affected a lot of us.
Teams are being forced to recycle coaches because emerging coaches do not have the qualifications.
Football is all about giving new players, new coaches and new administrators a chance.
</blockquote>
The coaching standards are also being enforced in Three, tertiary institutions and schools.
For secondary schools, a ZIFA Level Two badge is mandatory and primary school football coaches should have at least a Level Two certificate.
ZIFA technical development chairperson Kenneth Mhlophe is on record saying they are not going back on enforcing the standards. He said:
<blockquote>
We can’t have a situation where we turn a blind eye and say because we’re not involved in international football let Zimbabwean football be an animal farm where anyone can do as they please.
There was an annoying disregard for the club licensing with unqualified coaches and supporting staff allowed at the benches of the PSL.
We don’t make rules on who qualifies to be on the bench, its FIFA and CAF. There’s no going back in terms of enforcing standardisation.
</blockquote>
Kapenya (45), currently mentors Falcon College’s Under 14, 15 and 16 football teams and also conducts physical education lessons at the college. | <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/kapenya-questions-zifa-caf-a-licence-requirement/">Chronicle</a>

Dazzy Kapenya Criticises ZIFA CAF A Licence Requirement

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Restructuring Committee has handed over its final report to the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC).
The committee was established in December 2021 as part of the strategic roadmap toward addressing the challenges that have affected football management and administration in Zimbabwe.
The committee’s chairman Blessing Rugara on Wednesday told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zifa-restructuring-committee-hands-over-report/">The Herald</a> that they had submitted their report to the Sports and Recreation Commission by 23 December 2022.
The committee had been given until 31 December 2022 to complete its task. Said Rugara:
<blockquote>
We have completed the task that was mandated for us to do. I am sure there is a press release that is going to be made by the Sports Commission maybe tomorrow (today) or in the next few coming days.
The report is in three parts. The first part deals with presentations from the various stakeholders, then findings and recommendations.
There are recommendations to the ZIFA constitution which is the primary impediment to Zimbabwean football, in our view.
The committee exercised due diligence but there are obviously always challenges when you are trying to make changes to institutions such as ZIFA.
There is a lot in the report as you shall discover once it is made public. Of course, I would be pleased to see the recommendations being implemented for the betterment of the game.
We would also want to see the Government taking responsibility for football more directly so that the athletes get the level of support they need without facing impediments such as a lack of funds when they go out there.
That’s one of the major recommendations we made.
</blockquote>
The SRC suspended the ZIFA in November 2021 on allegations of abuse of funds and the sexual harassment of female referees among other charges.
In February 2022, FIFA suspended ZIFA’s membership on grounds of “third-party interference”.
As a result, all the national teams were barred from participating in international competitions until the ZIFA board is reinstated.

ZIFA Restructuring Committee Hands Over Report To SRC

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has reiterated that unqualified coaches will no longer be allowed in the technical team areas during matches.
ZIFA’s acting president Gift Banda said that the requirement for all Premier Soccer League matches to possess a CAF A Licence will be fully enforced this year.
In the past, ZIFA has exempted coaches who previously won the league championship who included Chicken Inn’s Joey Antipas and Moses Chunga among others, from the requirement.
Banda said no waivers will be made this year, meaning that Premiership coaches and their assistants should be in possession of a CAF A badge.
Division One coaches should have a minimum of CAF B while assistant coaches are required to be holders of a CAF C or ZIFA Level Four Licence. Said Banda:
<blockquote>
We come a long way in football administration. First, there’s an important reform we are trying to undertake that if we achieve it, we will find ourselves in a better state as a footballing nation that competes with our erstwhile colleagues on the continent and globally, that is club licensing.
Club licensing has been with us for a long time but there has been a lack of seriousness on the part of ZIFA management and PSL in implementing it.
You realise that across the border in Botswana where they ended up implementing club licensing they had to be tough, some teams in the Premiership were even barred because of not conforming to club licensing tenets.
It takes a lot of goodwill in order to come up and adhere to club licensing. In most cases, you find out that it’s a lack of will on the part of ZIFA and PSL because we keep on changing goalposts. 
We’ve agreed as a board that there won’t be any sacred cows in terms of adherence to club licensing this time around.
We’re there to implement it because we’re not looking beyond the mandate that we were given by the ZIFA councillors who gave us this tough task to steady the ship until the next election.
So, without fear or favour we are implementing standardisation of coaches. 
In the past, there were waivers given, and that disturbed the full implementation of the process.
Someone has to correct the wrongs that have been happening and that someone is us who were given the mandate by the ZIFA members.
</blockquote>
Despite the fact that ZIFA is not holding CAF courses, Banda insisted that there won’t be any going back on fully implementing standardisation of coaches. He said:
<blockquote>
The last time the country had CAF courses was in 2017. The continental body then suspended programmes as they improved the syllabus and we also had COVID-19 before the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) did what they did and FIFA banned us.
But it will be a travesty of justice to use all these excuses to stall the implementation of club licensing. As ZIFA, we do take part of the blame though.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/no-sacred-cows-as-zifa-weeds-out-unqualified-coaches/">The Sunday News</a>

No More Exemptions For Unqualified Coaches - ZIFA

Former Mighty Warriors and Black Rhinos Queens striker, Rufaro Machingura has died.
Machingura, nicknamed Mafidi, passed away on Thursday morning after a long illness.
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has expressed sorrow over Machingura’s death. A statement released by ZIFA reads:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Football Association [ZIFA] would like to send its heartfelt condolences to the Machingura family and the whole football fraternity at large following the passing of former Zimbabwe senior women’s national team [Mighty Warriors] player Rufaro ‘Mafidi’ Machingura.
Machingura died Thursday morning at her home in Retreat, Waterfalls, Harare after a long illness.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and the football fraternity at large in this time of sorrow.
May her soul rest in eternal peace.
</blockquote>
Mourners are gathered at House Number 4617 Retreat Park, Waterfalls, in Harare.

Former Mighty Warriors Striker Rufaro Machingura Dies

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) on Monday distanced itself from the proposed Unity Cup match between Dynamos and Highlanders.
ZIFA spokesperson Xolisani Gwesela on Monday said they were not aware of the match, adding that they have not sanctioned the match. He said:
<blockquote>
As ZIFA we are not aware of such a match. Of course, we have heard people talking about it but as far as we know there is no such match that has been sanctioned by ZIFA.
If it’s indeed on, then it’s being arranged elsewhere and we have not been briefed about it or it’s probably people who are trying to push the agenda.
</blockquote>
Recent media reports claimed that Dynamos and Highlanders will clash in the Unity Day Cup on Thursday.
Sakunda Holdings<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/sakunda-denies-bankrolling-unity-cup/"> who were reported to be bankrolling the Unity Cup also distanced themselves from the match</a>. | <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/zifa-not-aware-of-bosso-dembare-unity-day-clash/">Chronicle</a>

ZIFA "Not Aware" Of Unity Day Match

South African-based Warriors players Onismor Bhasera and George Chigova have implored the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) to consider the futures of young Zimbabwean footballers and ensure that the FIFA ban on the country is lifted.
FIFA suspended Zimbabwe from international football over a year ago after the SRC, a government body, suspended the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) board on allegations of corruption, mismanagement of funds, and sexual harassment.
FIFA says SRC should reinstate the Felton Kamambo-led ZIFA board for Zimbabwe to participate in international football tournaments again.
Speaking in an interview with FARPost, Bhasera, who plays for SuperSport United, said football authorities seem not to care about the future of Zimbabwean footballers. Said Bhasera:
<blockquote>
I’ve been following the events back home. It’s unfortunate that no one is considering the future of these footballers.
Some of us already made the break, but there are many still waiting for that breakthrough. Those ones have mainly been disadvantaged by the suspension.
We have been deprived at the continental and regional levels. It’s unfortunate that even player movements have slowed down since these events.
It’s the players that have suffered the most while the high offices are in an argument.
We can only wait for common ground to be reached for the sake of progress.
For the sake of our future, there must be an amicable resolution. We can’t remain stagnant in one position like this. Like other nations, we must progress.
</blockquote>
Goalkeeper George Chigova, who also plays for SuperSport United, contends that Zimbabwe’s suspension by FIFA means that local footballers have no international platform on which to showcase their talents. Said Chigova:
<blockquote>
I got an opportunity to play in South Africa after impressing during the 2013 Chan finals.
So, with the country suspended, it means no one is in a position to showcase themselves.
Many of us here in South Africa came via these tournaments. It’s the only possible breakthrough that footballers back home are waiting for.
Unfortunately, under these circumstances. It’s very hard to get such opportunities.
The future of Zimbabwean football is seriously under threat.
</blockquote>
Kenya had their suspension lifted by FIFA last month, leaving Zimbabwe as the only African country suspended from international football. | <a href="https://farpost.co.za/top-stories/supersport-united-duo-call-on-zim-authorities-to-let-bygones-be-bygones/">FARPost</a>

Warriors Duo Urge SRC And ZIFA To Let "Let Bygones Be Bygones"

A ban preventing Kenya from taking part in international soccer activities has been lifted after meeting FIFA demands.
In a letter seen by Pindula News, FIFA secretary general Fatma Samoura told Otieno that the ban had been discussed by the Bureau of the FIFA Council last Friday and confirmed the suspension had been lifted. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
<h2>Lifting of the suspension of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF)</h2>
Dear General Secretary.
We would like to inform you that the situation of the FKF was submitted to the Bureau of the FIFA Council thereinafter the Bureau) for consideration and decision on 25 November 2022.
On this occasion, the Bureau was informed of the official letter dated 4 November 2022 from the FKF General Secretary Barry Otieno to FIFA, confirming that the Kenyan government as represented by the newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Sports, the Hon. Ababu Namwamba. had reinstated the FKF Executive Committee with immediate effect. The Bureau also noted that the FKF General Secretary further asserted that the FKF offices had been handed back to the association’s elected leadership.
In view of these circumstances, the Bureau of the Council decided on 25 November 2022 to lift the suspension of the FKF with immediate effect Upon the lifting of the suspension, a FIFA-CAF mission will be deployed to Nairobi in order to define the next steps for the FKF and to also meet with the newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Sports. Further details will be communicated accordingly and in due course. 
Finally, the lifting of the suspension of the FKF lakes place without prejudice to the ongoing investigations and court proceedings at national level.
We thank you for taking note of the above and welcome this positive outcome. Yours faithfully, FIFA
Fatma Samoura Secretary General 
</blockquote>
<h2>Some Context:</h2>
The suspension was imposed after Kenya’s sports ministry disbanded the country’s football federation (FKF) over alleged misappropriation of funds and appointed a caretaker committee in November 2021.
The sanction meant the Harambee Stars were barred from qualifiers for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
However, Ababu Namwamba, the cabinet secretary for Youth Affairs, Sports and the Arts, reinstated FKF vice-president Doris Petra and general secretary Barry Otieno to their positions and control of FKF offices handed back to its board – as demanded by Fifa. 
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe which faces a similar situation is adamant it won’t give in to FIFA’s demands. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

FIFA Lifts Ban On Kenya After Meeting Demands

The ZIFA leadership, which is not recognised by FIFA, has commended the government for availing over ZWL$1 billion for the renovation of sporting facilities including the National Sports Stadium (NSS).
The Government has set aside ZWL$1.2 billion in the 2023 National Budget for upgrading sporting facilities across the country.
The National Sports Stadium is the main venue for hosting international matches but was banned by CAF as it does not meet the required standards.
Acting ZIFA president Gift Banda said the renovation of NSS should be expedited so that it meets international standards when ZIFA’s suspension by FIFA is lifted. Banda said:
<blockquote>
The emphasis on Zimbabwe’s return to international football has been that when we do so we go back having sorted our issues, having structures and infrastructure in place.
We’ve also been working on mending relations with key stakeholders and Government is one such key stakeholder.
It is good to note that the Government is serious about getting the National Sports Stadium to the required standards.
This means when our suspension is lifted we’ll defend our pride right within our borders.
Hopefully when we return to international football the National Sports Stadium will be ready for us to play international football competitively.
</blockquote>
Bucket seats, modern electronic turnstiles, and a venue operations centre (VOC) are some of the outstanding issues that need to be addressed according to FIFA and CAF inspectors. | <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/zifa-commends-government-for-stadia-funding/">The Sunday News</a>

ZIFA Wants National Sports Stadium Rehabilitation Expedited

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 28 January 2023.
The ZIFA Executive Committee met in Harare this Friday where it set the date for the AGM and suspended secretary-general Joseph Mamutse, among other resolutions. Here are the six resolutions that came out from the meeting:
<blockquote>
1. The Association will partner with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education for the training of coaches. This is meant to capacitate schools with the requisite expertise, and it will go a long way in developing the beautiful game.
2. The Executive Committee resolved that the Annual General Meeting be held on the 28th of January 2023.
3. The Executive Committee has resolved to appoint an ad hoc committee consisting of 3 members to scrutinise matters arising from the forensic audit report and make recommendations.
4. The Executive committee has resolved to embark on the National Division league in line with section 10 of the ZIFA constitution. Modalities of its implementation will be made public in due course.
5. The Executive Committee has noted with concern that Central Region, Southern Region, and Mashonaland Central province are not participating in ZIFA activities and meetings. The Executive committee is seized with the matter.
6. The Executive Committee has resolved to suspend the General Secretary, Mr Joseph Mamutse for failing to report for duty when he was lawfully called upon to do so and also to facilitate investigations on issues arising from the forensic audit report.
</blockquote>

ZIFA Suspends Secretary-General Joseph Mamutse

Football stakeholders have criticised the opposition-dominated City of Harare for “dragging politics into sport” after Sakunda Holdings, a company owned by a ZANU PF benefactor Kuda Tagwirei, formally withdrew its proposal to upgrade Rufaro Stadium, the so-called ceremonial home of football.
Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) interim president Gift Banda, who is coincidentally a former deputy mayor of the City of Bulawayo, accused the Harare City Council of letting politics get in the way of football. Said, Banda:
<blockquote>
What Sakunda had done was the right way. There is nothing political in sport. Politics should not be dragged into sport and football in particular.
Sakunda would have helped us to get Rufaro to become a CAF and FIFA-accepted stadium. “In any case, how much revenue is Harare City making at the moment from that stadium vis-à-vis what they are spending on maintenance?
City of Harare was supposed to try and assist in coming up with a solid contract that was beneficial to everyone and not close out a corporate that is trying to assist.
</blockquote>
Rufaro has been condemned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the stadium last hosted Premiership matches in 2019.
Premier Soccer League (PSL) chairperson Farai Jere argued that the refurbishment of Rufaro Stadium would have benefited local football in the long run. He said:
<blockquote>
This was a very important investment in football and it was going to benefit generations to come, and this is something we need to look at from that perspective.
</blockquote>
Northern Region Soccer League (NRSL) Division One chairperson Martin Kweza also expressed disappointment over Sakunda’s withdrawal from the partnership with Harare City Council. Said Kweza:
<blockquote>
I am heartbroken, to say the least. I was already envisaging a new Rufaro in the mould of FNB Stadium (South Africa’s World Cup stadium) on completion.
I could see the appetite of football people to come back to the home of football, particularly when we hosted the Axis Super 8 cup final.
A refurbished Rufaro was going to bring a new dawn for Zimbabwean football, and now this?
I sincerely hope the two parties will find each other and resolve the issues currently obtaining for the sake of Rufaro Stadium, the rich history that it carries and soccer-loving Zimbabweans.
</blockquote>
Sakunda cited “toxicity” in Harare City Council’s attitude as the reason for walking away from the deal. | <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/pressure-mounts-on-harare-mayor-over-rufaro">The Sunday Mail</a>

Football Stakeholders Criticise Council Over Rufaro Stadium Deal Collapse

Former ZIFA president Felton Kamambo and other suspended executive members have advised interim ZIFA president, Gift Banda, against distributing football equipment purchased using FIFA funds.
Kamambo and fellow board members Philemon Machana and Bryton Malandule recently wrote a letter to Banda warning him that distributing the equipment will strain future relations between ZIFA and FIFA.
The letter, which was written by the lawyers representing the suspended board members, Rubaya and Chatambudza, reads:
<blockquote>
It has come to our clients’ attention that at a meeting dubbed “The ZIFA EGM” you arranged and attended together with your colleagues and subsequently resolved to distribute football equipment purchased using FIFA funds strictly for FIFA-sanctioned programs despite previous communications from FIFA and CAF that you are to desist from utilising their financial resources.
Having previously helped yourselves to an amount equivalent to US$108 000 before you were directed through a letter by CAF and FIFA, we are at a loss as to why you and your grouping would proceed to agree to share the equipment from a donor (FIFA) who has not authorised you to do so and who has previously stated that they do not recognise you as the legitimate leaders of ZIFA and directed times without number that you should not utilise their resources.
</blockquote>
The Kamambo-led ZIFA executive was suspended by the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) in November last year over allegations including misappropriations of public funds.
Banda and his team were appointed in the interim but FIFA rejected the move and demanded the reinstatement of the suspended board members.
Early this year, FIFA banned Zimbabwe from the international football family as a result, citing government interference. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002922/couple-rapes-biological-children">NewsDay</a>

Kamambo Warns Interim ZIFA President Gift Banda

The family of Thadeous Machawira has castigated the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) for allegedly failing to help the late administrator, who died last week.
Machawira, who is the founding ZIFA Eastern Region Administrator, and served the association for two decades, died after a long battle with an undisclosed illness spanning over two months.
ZIFA reportedly neglected him during his time of need leaving his family to cover his medical bills.
Family spokesperson and son, Tichaona told <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/shameless-zifa-abandoned-veteran-administrator-family-disappointed-by-lack-of-support/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> that ZIFA contributed just ZW$$120 000 towards his medical bills and another ZW$300,000 towards funeral expenses. Tichaona said:
<blockquote>
Assistance during his illness was ZW$160,000 and, by that time, it was equivalent to around US$120.
They would just say they don’t have money, the region is constrained etc when we called them.
Surprisingly, soon after his demise, ZIFA issued a statement claiming he was one of them, but in times of need, they were nowhere to be seen.
… and (when he died) the same region which claimed to be penniless called asking what we needed for the funeral and they sent ZW$300 000.
So far, there are no commitments to assisting the family left behind and no talk of his legacy yet.
</blockquote>
However, Eastern Region Vice Chairman Wisdom Simba claimed that ZIFA assisted Machawira in various ways. He said:
<blockquote>
As a region, we have been assisting Machawira in so many ways.
We took care of some of his medical expenses and, before his death, we paid for all the tests.
We also contributed quite a substantive amount which went towards funeral costs.
As for the surviving spouse, if resources permit, we will assist whenever we can.
</blockquote>

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