Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIFA have directed the Zimbabwe Football Federation for Amateur and Social Leagues (ZIFASOL) run by former board member Francis Zimunya’s to cease ‘parallel’ football activities which they have been conducting around the country in the past few years.
The football mother body said in a statement Monday morning that ZIFASOL, which has conducted a series of football development outreach programmes, coach education and has in excess of 4 025 area zone teams affiliated to it, was not authorised to conduct football business after its application for ZIFA membership was rejected.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) wishes to inform the public and all football stakeholders that the application by the Zimbabwe Football Federation for Amateur and Social Leagues (ZIFASOL) for membership to ZIFA was not approved,” said in a statement.
“It has, however, come to the Association’s attention that ZIFASOL continues to organise football activities at the area zone level without the necessary authority.
“ZIFA reiterates that the organisation of area zone football is the exclusive mandate of ZIFA and its officially recognised members.
“No other entity is permitted to operate such structures outside the jurisdiction of the Association.”
The national association further nullified all football coaching certificates issued by ZIFASOL and instructed the organisation to immediately halt their programmes.
“ZIFASOL has been conducting football training courses without accreditation or approval from ZIFA. The public is therefore advised that any football training or education programmes conducted under ZIFASOL are not recognised and are hereby declared null and void.
“In line with the statutes of the Association and to maintain the integrity and proper governance of football in Zimbabwe, ZIFA has directed the immediate suspension of all activities organised under the ZIFASOL banner,” said the ZIFA statement.
The association also likened the activities by ZIFASOL to running a ‘parallel’ structure, which is not permitted under the FIFA rules and regulations.
“These activities constitute parallel administration of football, which is in direct violation of ZIFA regulations. All clubs and leagues previously affiliated with or participating in ZIFASOL competitions are directed to immediately align themselves with officially sanctioned ZIFA Area Zones structures.
“ZIFA remains committed to structured football development and calls on all stakeholders to respect and uphold the regulatory framework that governs the beautiful game in Zimbabwe. For any enquiries or further guidance, stakeholders are encouraged to contact the nearest ZIFA office,” said ZIFA.
Let’s have harmony in our football if we are to develop. Football must be one and run from the official office. Zimunya is power hungry. If he is interested in developing football in this country, he must join ZIFA structures.