Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
FIFA Strategic Planning and Implementation expert Stewart Regan has commended ZIFA for improving the image of Zimbabwean football, saying the association is making steady progress in strengthening governance and building a foundation for sustainable growth.
The English sports administrator, who previously served as Chief Executive of the Scottish Football Association and Yorkshire County Cricket Club, is in Zimbabwe as part of FIFA’s strategic support programme.
During his visit, Regan is expected to assist ZIFA in strengthening governance, strategic planning and commercial sustainability as the association seeks to build a professionally managed and globally competitive football ecosystem.
He has already held meetings with government officials, members of the ZIFA Executive Committee and the media as part of consultations to develop a five-year strategic plan for Zimbabwean football.
Regan said encouraging progress had already been made across several areas.
“It’s great to see a lot of green shoots emerging. There’s a lot of work being done to develop competitions, particularly for girls as well as boys at youth level. There’s also a lot of work being done on branding and restoring the ZIFA brand, ensuring it has a strong presence in the marketplace.
“It’s encouraging to see the passion, energy and excitement around football. The FIFA World Cup over the last few weeks has reinforced the importance of football to the people of Zimbabwe.
“We met with the government, and they are very keen to see ZIFA make progress. The government is very supportive of the work that ZIFA is doing and is looking forward to the development of a long-term strategic plan. There is still a lot of work to do, and it will take several months, but I’m excited to be part of the process and look forward to a successful outcome.”
The FIFA support programme is expected to help ZIFA strengthen its governance structures, improve long-term planning and enhance the commercial viability of Zimbabwean football as part of broader efforts to transform the game.
