Online Reporter
By Tongai Mashonga
DESPITE facing numerous challenges, Kwekwe United owner Phil Makekera remains optimistic about his team’s prospects in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.
In an exclusive interview at the weekend, Makekera shared his thoughts on the club’s financial situation, targets and plans for 2025.
He insisted that the club is financialy sound.
“At the moment we do not have any financial challenges on player bonuses and salaries,” said Makekera.
“There is no sponsorship for football leagues in Zimbabwe compared to other countries like South Africa, and Kwekwe United is in that league. So, we face challenges that all teams in the league face.”
However, he acknowledged that the team has been without a sponsor for several years, relying on his personal financial support for the past 11 years.
“We have been fortunate to have a loyal dedicated team, and we have managed to stay afloat. For the past 11 years I have been funding the team from my personal funds,” said Makerera.
Looking ahead to 2025, Makekera outlined several ambitious plans for the club. One of their top priorities is completing the renovations of Torwood Stadium by the end of April.
The club also aims to develop players for national team selection, achieve self-sustainance and enhance community participation to attract sponsors and partners.
“Top on our list is to complete the renovations at Torwood Satdium such that we start playing our home games at our home ground here in Kwekwe. We want to develop players that will be considered for different national teams.
“We are committed to building a strong and sustainable football club that benefits the community and promotes the development of young players. We plan to launch clean-up campaigns and also support local hospitals through community partnerships as well as form partnerships with foreign teams in Europe,” said Makerera.
He also highlighted the club’s focus on youth development with an Under-19 team competing in Division Two.
“We’ve an Under-19 team playing in the Midlands Division Two league. Plans are underway to introduce more age-groups next year, we want to develop young stars to play for both our teams.
On the pitch, Makekera set a target of finishing in the top 10 and retain the Premier Soccer League (PSL) status next season.
“This year we want to compete in the league and finish in the top 10 of the log standings. We have a new set of players and technical team only five players from the team which won the Central Region Soccer League (CRSL) title last season are still part of us. We will play our game while we are engaging and encouraging the community to come in numbers and rally behind the team,” said Makekera.
In addition to this on-field ambition, Kwekwe United FC with a new technical team led by Soul Chaminuka and new players on board, the club is eager to make a strong impression in the PSL.
The club’s ladies’ team, Kwekwe United Queens were also promoted to play into the Zimbabwe Women Super League this season which is another source of pride for the club and Kwekwe.
