THE Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Normalisation Committee (NC) has officially announced that the highly anticipated ZIFA presidential elections will take place on 25 January 2025 at the Rainbow Towers in Harare.
Former Mines Parliamentary Committee Chairperson Themba Mliswa is among the notable candidates vying for the top position, as the football body looks to usher in a new era of leadership. Mliswa, a former Member of Parliament, fitness trainer, and sports administrator, hopes to bring reform and stability to ZIFA, which has faced significant challenges in recent years.
Shamva-based miner and businessman Simba Buju Ndoro is also contesting for a seat on the ZIFA board. Ndoro, owner of Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions Simba Bhora, has earned recognition for his contributions to grassroots football development and his leadership within Zimbabwean sports.
The ZIFA elections are expected to shape the future of football in Zimbabwe. After years of administrative instability, mismanagement, and strained relationships with international bodies like FIFA and CAF, the Normalisation Committee’s oversight is seen as critical to ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process.
Who is running for ZIFA presidency?
Nine candidates are vying for the ZIFA presidency. These include prominent figures such as Walter Magaya, Themba Mliswa, and former ZIFA administrator Twine Phiri. The complete list of presidential aspirants is as follows:
- Walter Magaya
- Themba Mliswa
- Magwizi Nqobile
- Machana Philimon
- Twine Phiri
- Jere Farai
- Muponda Gilbert
- Gore Marshall
- Kweza Martin
Election venue and process
The elections will take place at the Rainbow Towers in Harare, where eligible delegates will cast their votes to elect the ZIFA president, vice presidents, and board members. According to ZIFA guidelines, the process will be monitored by FIFA-appointed officials to ensure fairness and compliance with international football governance standards.
Key candidates: Mliswa and Ndoro
Themba Mliswa brings a wealth of leadership experience to his campaign. As a former Member of Parliament and chairperson of the Mines and Energy Parliamentary Portfolio Committee, Mliswa gained a reputation for tackling corruption and advocating for transparency. His sports background includes roles in football and rugby administration, as well as a career as a fitness trainer.
Simba Buju Ndoro, meanwhile, is a businessman whose ownership of Simba Bhora has helped promote competitive football in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League. His candidacy reflects a commitment to addressing challenges faced by clubs and enhancing grassroots development.
Challenges facing ZIFA
ZIFA has struggled with financial mismanagement, poor governance, and declining performance at both the domestic and international levels. These issues have eroded public trust in the association, making this election a crucial opportunity to rebuild credibility and chart a new course for Zimbabwean football.
Public expectations
Football fans and stakeholders have called for transparency, accountability, and a renewed focus on development. As the campaigns progress, the public is keen to hear detailed manifestos from candidates, particularly on how they plan to reform ZIFA and revitalise the sport.
With the 25 January elections fast approaching, Zimbabwe’s football community is hoping for a fresh start under capable and visionary leadership.
