Online Reporter
Inside ZIFA with Nqobile Magwizi
The heartbeat of African football echoed across Kinshasa last week as the 47th CAF Ordinary General Assembly gathered the continent’s football leaders, legends, and partners under one roof.
It was more than a meeting; it was a celebration of unity, ambition, and the unstoppable rise of African football.
I had the privilege of attending this year’s Congress alongside ZIFA secretary general, Mrs Yvonne Manwa and our second vice president, Mrs Loveness Mukura, representing Zimbabwe in discussions that will shape the future of African football.
Zimbabwe’s return to the continental table
The Congress opened in grand style with a banquet hosted by His Excellency Félix Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The evening captured the essence of African warmth and pride – a tapestry of cultures, colours, and camaraderie. It was a night to remember, where stories of football’s power to unite were shared in laughter and optimism.
This was not merely ceremony; it was a reaffirmation that football is a diplomatic bridge and a vehicle for shared continental purpose. Zimbabwe’s presence at that table, after recent years of isolation, was deeply symbolic.
It was a statement that we are back, engaged, and ready to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s football narrative. It was a powerful reminder of the unwavering support our game enjoys from His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, as well as the Sports and Recreation Commission.
Football, after all, is more than a sport – it is a national passion and a global unifier.
Football’s enduring magic
Football, as always, brought its magic. On the sidelines of the Congress, a legends’ match reminded us that the love for the game never fades.
Our own vice president, Mrs Loveness Mukura proudly represented Zimbabwe, playing alongside icons such as Kalusha Bwalya, who rolled back the years with effortless flair. When vice president Mukura found the back of the net, it wasn’t just a goal; it was a moment that captured Zimbabwe’s spirit. Her participation reflected our confidence, belief, and determination to be part of the continental story. It was a light-hearted yet powerful symbol of our reconnection with African football’s beating heart.
Honouring our legends
CAF continues to set the standard through its purposeful inclusion of African football legends in its programmes and governance structures. From Kalusha Bwalya to El Hadji Diouf and Emmanuel Adebayor, their involvement goes far beyond ceremony – it infuses the organisation with wisdom, experience, and authenticity.
These icons stand as living bridges between generations, reminding us that today’s triumphs are built upon the foundations laid by those who came before.
Their continued presence reflects a deep culture of respect, legacy, and continuity – a culture that Zimbabwe, too, is proudly embracing as we reconnect with our own heroes to inspire and guide the next generation.
The power of partnerships
The Congress also underscored the growing strength of African football’s commercial and strategic networks. Global partners such as IMG and TotalEnergies were actively engaged throughout, a sign of confidence in CAF’s governance and professionalism.
Their investment in competitions and development initiatives is transforming the football landscape, ensuring that African football is not just passionate but sustainable.
Zimbabwe’s delegation took special interest in these models of partnership and accountability. As we continue rebuilding our structures, we recognise that strategic alliances with Government, the private sector, and international partners will be essential to driving growth and success across all levels of our game.
Strategic dialogue with FIFA President Infantino
The highlight of my visit was a constructive meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Our discussion focused on charting a shared vision for Zimbabwean football’s next chapter. Among the key issues discussed was the modernisation of our stadia and training facilities to meet global standards, strengthening governance and transparency within ZIFA, building on the success of the recent Under-17 tournament which showcased our nation’s emerging talent, exploring opportunities for Zimbabwe to host future CAF tournaments such as CHAN, and planning for president Infantino’s official visit to Zimbabwe – a milestone that will reaffirm our growing collaboration with FIFA.
This engagement was cordial, strategic, and forward-looking, proof that Zimbabwe’s football diplomacy is alive and bearing fruit.
Reconnecting with the global game
Our attendance at the CAF Congress carried deeper meaning beyond policy and protocol. For Zimbabwe, it was an affirmation that our reintegration into the football family of nations continues to gather pace.
After a period on the sidelines, our return to continental and global football structures represents a new dawn founded on accountability, inclusion, and development. These engagements are not just about presence; they are about influence, learning, and partnership.
When Zimbabwe sits at the same table as CAF and FIFA leadership, we are not only restoring our visibility but contributing ideas, forging relationships, and rebuilding trust.
It is through consistent participation in such high-level forums that our football can attract investment, build credibility, and align with international best practice.
Reintegration is not a single event but a process that requires deliberate effort, dialogue, and visibility.
The CAF Congress reminded us that football success is built not only on what happens on the pitch but also in boardrooms and collaborative spaces where the future of the game is decided.
Zimbabwe’s renewed engagement sends a powerful message that we are not bystanders in African football’s story. We are active participants who are determined to restore the pride of our national teams, the vibrancy of our leagues, and the professionalism of our institutions.
A Congress of progress and purpose
The Congress’ agenda was comprehensive, covering audited accounts, zonal reports, and proposed amendments to CAF’s statutes.
Yet beyond the formalities, what stood out most was the spirit of unity and progress. Under the visionary leadership of CAF president Dr Patrice Motsepe, African football continues to move forward with confidence, purpose, and a collective sense of destiny.
Looking ahead
Zimbabwe returns from Kinshasa with renewed belief. Our participation reaffirmed our place within the African football family, one committed to integrity, development, and inclusion.
Football remains more than a game; it is a bridge to national pride, youth empowerment, and continental solidarity. From Kinshasa, we bring back not just resolutions but conviction that Zimbabwean football’s brightest days are still to come.
Before I sign off, allow me to commend our Warriors for their valiant goalless draw against Bafana Bafana in Durban.
Playing with ten men for much of the second half, the team showed immense heart, discipline, and character – and with a bit more luck, could well have claimed all three points.
We are proud of your fighting spirit and stand firmly behind you as you prepare for tomorrow’s clash against Lesotho.
Together, we move forward – for the game, for the nation, and for the future.
