Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
LEADING ZIFA presidential election candidate – Nqobile Magwizi – has garnered respect and admiration from esteemed voices in football administration, including sitting councillors in the Eastern Region.
Following the ZIFA Normalisation Committee’s candidate integrity scrutiny process, remaining presidential candidates include Magwizi, Marshall Gore, Philemon Machana, Martin Kweza, Twine Phiri and Makwinje Phiri.
When the ZIFA election season commenced with declarations of interest from various aspiring candidates, the pendulum seemed to swing in favour of religious leader Walter Magaya.
However, as electioneering gained momentum, Magwizi emerged as the firm favourite with several ZIFA councillors based in the Eastern Region, who shared their views with the Post Sport on condition of anonymity, revealing that he is the most credible candidate for the assocoation’s presidency.
Notably, despite the buzz surrounding cleric Magaya, Magwizi has consistently demonstrated a proven track record in business and sports management, making him the sole credible candidate among the lot.
A councillor expressed their support for Magwizi, saying: “I’ve always viewed him as the only credible candidate to elevate our football to the next level. Despite the noise surrounding Magaya and others, Magwizi has consistently demonstrated his credibility. He boasts a proven track record in business and sports management, and is a leader of integrity with impeccable social standing and sober habits – precisely what we need in a ZIFA president.”
Munyaradzi Zinomwe, a well-versed football enthusiast and staunch supporter of Dynamos and Liverpool, added: “The football landscape has evolved into a multifaceted business empire. To succeed, one needs a strong business acumen and experience in football administration in Zimbabwe. Magwizi’s impressive CV, coupled with his corporate background, makes him an ideal candidate for this new era. The incoming board would benefit from having one or two former players alongside Magwizi at the helm.”
James Lunga Meya, a construction entrepreneur and football benefactor from Mutare, now based in South Africa, also endorsed Magwizi.
“As a renowned entrepreneur, business leader, and philanthropist, I believe Magwizi is committed to driving economic growth and social development in Zimbabwe. He’s the right person to take us forward, transforming our football teams locally and internationally. We need someone who can secure sponsorships and broadcast local games live, similar to SAFA’s initiatives. Magwizi’s track record speaks for itself, and I wholeheartedly endorse him for the opportunity,” he said.
The ZIFA presidential candidate acknowledges the immense challenges facing Zimbabwean football, particularly after the country’s emergence from a FIFA international suspension and the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Magwizi’s campaign literature, the pandemic paralyzed football activities for over two years, resulting in a fractured football community, dwindling fan base, and stifled development.
He emphasizes that Zimbabwean football has been tested like never before and that now is the time for it to rise again.
Magwizi’s campaign promises to address these challenges, but the road ahead will be tough. Zimbabwe’s football scene has faced significant setbacks, including the suspension from FIFA, which meant the country couldn’t participate in international competitions.
Despite these challenges, there are glimmers of hope.
For instance, the rise of football talent from areas like Mbare has shown that, with the right support and infrastructure, Zimbabwean football can thrive.
Overall, Magwizi’s campaign acknowledges the enormity of the task ahead but expresses optimism for Zimbabwean football’s future.
“This isolation came on the heels of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, which paralysed football activities for over two years. During this time, stadiums were silenced, spectators were locked out, and fan engagements became nearly impossible, as public health protocols took precedence.
“The result was a fractured football community, a dwindling fan base, and stifled development. The combined effects of the pandemic and FIFA suspension cannot be overstated. Zimbabwean football has been tested like never before, and now is the time for it to rise again.”
