Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
A high-stakes showdown is on the horizon as the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZifA) Southern Region gears up for what could be an explosive annual general meeting (AGM). The meeting, set for Saturday morning in Esigodini, is expected to be a heated affair, with several contentious issues on the agenda, chief among them, the expansion of the league and the fate of financially embattled clubs.
At the heart of the debate is the proposal to increase the number of teams in the Zifa Southern Region Division One League from 16 to 20. If approved, this expansion would welcome new entrants, including Bulawayo Warriors and Ostrich.
However, not all clubs are in a celebratory mood, as unresolved financial obligations threaten to seal the fate of two established sides, Zimbabwe Saints and Indlovu Iyanyathela, who are struggling to settle outstanding registration and affiliation fees from previous seasons.
Adding fuel to the fire is the contentious case of ZPC Hwange. One of the league’s longest-surviving members, the club was initially absorbed into MWOS following a strategic partnership.
However, it now resurfaces under a new identity, Megawatt, after reportedly acquiring the Adachi franchise. Many stakeholders are unhappy about how this transition was handled, especially in a season when the Southern Region lost three teams from the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
The setting of affiliation fees outside of congress has also raised eyebrows, with some clubs grappling to raise the necessary funds. This has cast doubt on their ability to participate, particularly as Zimbabwe gears up for the proposed National Division One League. The AGM will likely determine whether or not struggling clubs will be replaced by new applicants.
Zifa Southern Region spokesperson Blessing Mbwanda remained tight-lipped ahead of the meeting, stating:
“All decisions are ratified by the congress. For now, what I can tell you is that preparations for the meeting are at an advanced stage, and congress will decide how the league will be run. All questions will be answered at the AGM, where some of these issues will be addressed.”
Meanwhile, the stage is set for a competitive 2024 season. The recent relegation of Arenel, Bulawayo Chiefs, and Hwange from the PSL has injected additional firepower into the league, ensuring a thrilling battle for promotion.
These former top-flight teams will be determined to reclaim their PSL status but they must first overcome formidable opposition, including Casmyn, Nkayi United and Bulawayo City. Dark horses such as Talen Vision and Zebra Revolution could also spring surprises, making for a gruelling contest where every match will count.
With so much at stake, Saturday’s AGM promises to be a defining moment for the Zifa Southern Region. The outcome will not only shape the structure of the league but also set the tone for what is expected to be one of the most competitive seasons in years.
-@innocentskizoe
