Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze, [email protected]
The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the Mighty Warriors by tabling improved remuneration for the team ahead of the Cosafa Cup in Polokwane, South Africa.
Zimbabwe leave on February 17 and open their Group B campaign two days later against Eswatini. They will then face defending champions Zambia and Botswana. The three group winners and the best runner-up advance to the semi-finals.
Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya visited the team in camp yesterday as part of that show of support.
“We came to visit the Mighty Warriors because they will be representing us at the Cosafa tournament in South Africa,” she said. “It was important to interact with them and show Government support and our commitment to the development of the game and the empowerment of women in sport.”
Jesaya said the visit was also meant to assess the team’s living conditions, nutrition, training facilities and overall preparedness.
She met the players privately, without officials present, to allow them to speak freely about their concerns. Issues raised included welfare, contracts, allowances and accommodation.
“As Government, we will take up the concerns raised by the players and engage football authorities, relevant stakeholders and other ministries to improve their conditions,” she said.
“The meeting was enlightening and we will act on the issues they raised.”
She expressed satisfaction with the team’s morale and confirmed that Government is ready to financially support their Cosafa campaign.
In the past, women’s teams have received lower allowances than their male counterparts. Jesaya said the figures have now been increased.
“We will continue to support them because it takes commitment and courage to represent the nation,” she said. “It is not about whether they win or lose.”
Zifa president Nqobile Magwizi said the association had already secured flights and accommodation for the trip.
He said Government backing would strengthen efforts to improve women’s football structures, starting with player welfare.
“Player welfare is critical. We are working to ensure that the standard of living and camping facilities for the women’s team match those of the men,” said Magwizi.
“The allowances have been adjusted. There has been a significant increase compared to what they were getting before. Credit goes to the new executive committee for pushing these changes and ensuring resources are available when the women’s team participates.”
Magwizi said improved remuneration and camping conditions would form part of a new approach under his administration.
“For women’s football, we are deliberate. We want clear pathways from grassroots to elite level,” he said. “We have a good team and we are investing resources to compete now, while building for the long term.”
He said Zifa aims to qualify for major tournaments within the next two to four years, targeting the Olympics, Wafcon and ultimately the World Cup.
