Zifa job attracts foreign interest

Noel Munzabwa
NATIONAL Football Association of Swaziland chief executive officer, Frederick Mngometulu and his immediate predecessor and former Mamelodi Sundowns general manager Kenneth Makhanya have applied for the vacant Zifa general secretary job.

The job was left vacant after expiry of Jonathan Mashingaidze’s contract with the Zifa Board preferring not to renew it and a fortnight ago the Phillip Chiyangwa led board activated the process of replacement through a far reaching advert whose interest has crossed the country’s geographical borders.

South African based Makhanya confirmed the interest and submission of his CV.

“True that I have held wide ranging consultations and I think Zimbabwe football could be another interesting challenge for my career. I have submitted my CV to the relevant authorities and like any applicant I am hopeful the application will be considered. Perhaps the rest could be for interviews,” said the Black Leopards general manager.

Zifa media liaison officer, Xolisani Gwesela could not commit himself to a comment preferring to say “it can only be clear next week.”

This is not the first time a football administration job in Zimbabwe has attracted foreign interest with the top flight Premier Soccer League almost engaging incumbent National Football Association of Swaziland CEO, Mngomezulu before settling for Ndebele six years ago.

Makhanya, who had a successful stint with the National Football Association of Swaziland as CEO and now holding the same portfolio at National First Division outfit Black Leopards submitted his curriculum vitae last Sunday after wide persuasions and consultation.

According to close sources, the Swazi born held consultations with Fifa Development Officer for Cosafa region, Ashford Mamelodi and NFAS president and current Cosafa vice president Adam Bomber Mthethwa among others, who he coincidentally listed as his references in the CV.

Makhanya is said to be a holder of a Business Administration degree to add to a top football executive administration qualification acquired from Zurich among others and is credited with NFAS’ acquisition of Sigwaca House and construction of the Technical Centre situation adjacent Somhlolo National Stadium.

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