Gweru Graduates Ready to Serve Football

ZIFA’s Administration and Management Course in Gweru concluded on Friday, 23 October, with a graduation ceremony marking the completion of five days of learning focused on strengthening football administration.

The ceremony was attended by ZIFA Vice President Kennedy Ndebele, ZIFA Technical Director Dominique Niyonzima and course facilitator Archford Mamelodi. It brought the Gweru programme to a close with attention turning to how participants can use their knowledge within football organisations.

Held from 19 to 23 October, the course formed part of Phase Three of the National Course Directors Programme. Its purpose was to build the capacity of administrators and support a more professional approach to managing the game in Zimbabwe. These skills are important at every level, from grassroots to national competitions.

“Put what you have learnt into practice and help us build a stronger future for Zimbabwean football,” said Ndebele.

The message reflects the wider purpose of ZIFA’s investment in administrative development. Stronger clubs and competitions depend on people who can plan effectively, manage resources responsibly and make decisions that serve the interests of football.

Building the capacity of football administrators was among the key priorities identified by the current ZIFA Executive Committee at the start of its tenure. The Gweru course continued that work through a programme covering the responsibilities administrators carry across different football structures.

Under Mamelodi’s guidance, participants covered governance, leadership, planning and communication, alongside finance, club management and competitions. The programme also examined ZIFA structures, the Technical Department, refereeing and the role of a member association, placing administrative work within the wider football system.

Sessions on club committee roles and responsibilities addressed how organisations are led, while event management and fan development brought attention to the delivery of football activities and the people who support them. An overview of COSAFA, CAF and FIFA provided regional and international context.

Group work and feedback sessions created space for participants to consider how the course material relates to their daily responsibilities. This practical approach supports learning that can be adapted to the needs of individual organisations.

“This course gives administrators practical tools to improve their work. Sharing that knowledge with colleagues will help its benefits reach more clubs and communities,” said Mamelodi.

For clubs and leagues, that application can begin with straightforward improvements. Accurate records, clear committee duties and realistic budgets help organisations operate with greater certainty. Timely communication makes it easier for teams to prepare and for supporters to understand arrangements.

Good administration also supports technical development by creating reliable conditions for players and coaches to work. It connects decisions made by football officials with the quality of competitions and the opportunities available to those taking part.

The Gweru programme followed a similar course held in Bulawayo from 12 to 16 October. Together, the two courses form part of ZIFA’s continued effort to strengthen the people and institutions responsible for developing Zimbabwean football.

As participants return to their responsibilities, the challenge is to carry the week’s learning forward through consistent professional practice, helping build stronger football institutions.

More News