daniel chigunwe
By Gilbert Munetsi
JOYCE Kapota, one of five contestants vying for the ZIFA vice presidency, has conceded defeat.
She has showcased true sportsmanship by wishing the winners success in their new roles.
Kapota, initially seen as a frontrunner due to her impressive resume, including international football administration courses and key roles in top-flight clubs, found the competition steep, ultimately finishing last with just one vote.
The vice-presidential race was won by Loveness Mukura, who secured an overwhelming 43 votes.
Other candidates included former women’s football boss Mavis Gumbo, who garnered 26 votes, Winnet Murota with eight and Patience Mutumwa with five.
Despite the loss, Kapota displayed no signs of bitterness and instead took to social media to express gratitude and optimism for the future.
“I thank all those who supported my candidature. Thank you for all the love and support; I do not take it lightly. We did it independently, with no funding or backing of any sort, but we soldiered through the whole process,” she wrote.
“Congratulations to all the candidates who made it today. I feel proud to have stood alongside giants in our land. Well done to you all. It was a learning curve, and many worthwhile lessons were learnt.
“I remain a football administrator and will work tirelessly to improve our Zimbabwean sport. The vision remains to professionalise our football.”
As Zimbabwean football enters a new chapter, the spotlight will remain on ZIFA’s leadership and their ability to rebuild the sport’s credibility while addressing allegations of malpractice.
For Kapota, her loss may just be the beginning of a renewed commitment to professionalising and uplifting the beautiful game in Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter