Nqobile Bhebhe [email protected]
GOVERNMENT has been urged to consider sponsoring Highlanders FC and Dynamos FC through State-owned entities to safeguard the country’s two iconic football clubs from financial challenges that could threaten their survival in the top-flight league.
Nkulumane Constituency legislator Cde Freedom Murechu said the two clubs, which have immense historical and cultural significance in Zimbabwean football, should receive institutional support rather than continue depending on individual benefactors.
Speaking at the ongoing Pre-Budget Seminar in Bulawayo on Friday, Cde Murechu proposed that the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) sponsor Highlanders FC, while telecommunications giant NetOne could support Dynamos FC.
He said the two clubs were increasingly vulnerable because, unlike several other teams that enjoy corporate sponsorship, Highlanders FC and Dynamos FC lacked reliable institutional funding.
“I realise that corporates fund most football teams in the country save for two very important teams in the country- Dynamos FC and Highlanders FC.
“If we are not careful, sooner rather than later, Highlanders FC and Dynamos FC could be relegated.
“As a country, we cannot afford to see these two teams relegated,” he said.
Cde Murechu said Government should explore sustainable sponsorship arrangements involving public entities to ensure the clubs remain financially stable and competitive.
“My recommendation is that these two teams can be sponsored by Government entities.
“For instance, Highlanders FC can be sponsored by ZINARA and Dynamos FC sponsored by NetOne.
“These two teams do not represent just football, but they are a culture on their own
“We cannot afford a situation whereby these teams survive at the mercy of individuals,” he said.
His proposal comes amid growing calls for sustainable financing models for domestic football, with clubs facing mounting operational costs, including player salaries, transport, accommodation and competition-related expenses.
Highlanders FC and Dynamos FC are among Zimbabwe’s most historically significant football institutions, commanding substantial support across the country and contributing to the development of the local game.
The proposed sponsorship model could provide the clubs with predictable financial support while allowing State-owned enterprises to strengthen their corporate social responsibility and national sporting development programmes.
