Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere, Zimpapers Sports Hub
FOR the first time, club administrators and coaches from Zifa’s Southern Region Soccer League convened for a practical workshop focused on football governance and development. Held at Bulawayo’s Queens Sports Club on Saturday, the session marked a significant step towards strengthening the professional foundations of Division One clubs.
Officially opened by Zifa Vice-President Kennedy Ndebele, the event addressed key aspects of football management. Presentations were delivered by seasoned football administrator Nhlanhla Bahlangene Dube and retired referee Edson Nkau.
“What we were conducting was an introductory workshop for Zifa Southern Region Division One clubs. Essentially, we explored various areas of football administration that club officials should examine and enhance, including the definition and types of clubs within the football ecosystem,” said Dube, a former Highlanders Chief Executive Officer.
He continued: “We also examined different forms of communication, the art and tools of communication, and its importance.
“All of this is essential because, within administrative systems, we must elevate clubs to a level where continuous improvement becomes the norm. We are all aware that Zifa is gradually progressing towards club licensing proposals. Club licensing exists to professionalise our game.
“We are preparing clubs to be fully aware of the realities of professional football administration.”
Dube emphasised that clubs must prioritise financial management and become well-versed in Zifa’s statutes.
He noted that a club’s internal systems must align with the national football governing body to ensure proper compliance.
The meeting, which also featured football legend Amini Soma Phiri, addressed player welfare — an area Dube said clubs must approach with greater urgency.
“This concerns safeguarding issues, medical care, and overall player welfare. We must be more thorough. Our football will only be taken seriously if we ourselves elevate its standards. Football can only be as serious as the parameters we establish,” said Dube, adding that the turnout at the workshop was impressive.
Among the clubs represented were Bulawayo City, Bulawayo Chiefs, Talen Vision, Hwange, Nkayi United, Nust, Jordan Sinnot, Eagle Life, Imbizo, Megawatts and Bulawayo Warriors.
