Pacific set to bankroll Zifa Southern Region season

ZIFA Southern Region Division One League is set for a financial boost ahead of the new season after Pacific Cigarette Company moved to bankroll the competition in a deal expected to ease operational pressures and improve prize incentives.

Zimpapers Sports Hub understands that the company has made an in principle commitment to support the league throughout the 2026 campaign, with funding expected to cover running costs and key promotional activities.

Sources familiar with the negotiations said the proposed framework includes a monthly contribution of US$3 500 during the sponsorship period, with the funds earmarked for operational expenses and the end of year prize fund under an agreed allocation plan.

The package also includes support for the season opening and closing ceremonies, subject to branding and activation rights being finalised between the parties.

Under the proposal, Pacific will designate one Game of the Month per quarter to drive visibility, while participating teams are set to receive full playing kits and branded warm up T-shirts under agreed distribution controls.

The sponsor’s logo is expected to appear on the left side of match jerseys in line with brand guidelines.

Zifa Southern Region spokesperson Tizirayi Luphahla said the league was not yet ready to comment in detail on the arrangement or confirm the start date for the new campaign.

“As a region, I cannot speak much for now. I can neither confirm nor deny when league action will start,” said Luphahla.

The sponsorship comes at a critical time for the Southern Region competition, which has faced recurring funding challenges that have strained club operations and limited commercial growth.

Bulawayo Chiefs won last season’s title, with former Premier Soccer League side Hwange finishing second while Nkayi United came third.

If finalised, the deal is expected to stabilise the league’s financial base and provide clubs with greater certainty as preparations for the new season gather pace.