TRAILBLAZING female football official Yvonne Mapika Manwa has bounced back as the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) general secretary, returning to the helm of the country’s football administration just six months after her initial contract expired.
Manwa, widely regarded as one of the country’s top female football administrators, previously served as the chief executive officer at former Castle Lager Premier Soccer League champions Ngezi Platinum Stars between 2022 and 2023.
She then transitioned to Zifa, serving as general secretary from 2023 to 2025 under both the Zifa Normalisation Committee and the current Zifa board led by Nqobile Magwizi.
Following her departure at the end of last year, Norman Gwangwadza stepped into the role in an acting capacity.
However, Manwa’s hiatus was short-lived, with the football mother body officially confirming her reappointment following a rigorous selection process.
In an official statement yesterday, the football association expressed immense confidence in Manwa’s proven track record and leadership capabilities.
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“The Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Yvonne Mapika Manwa as the substantive general secretary of the Association following a competitive recruitment and interview process,” the statement read.
“Ms Mapika Manwa previously served as Zifa general secretary from 2023 to 2025 and returns to the role with extensive experience in football administration and governance.
“Her appointment marks an important step in the Association’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its leadership and advance its strategic vision for the growth and development of football in Zimbabwe.
“The Zifa executive committee congratulates M Mapika Manwa on her appointment and wishes her every success as she assumes her new responsibilities.”
The association also took the opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of the outgoing interim scribe, adding: “The Association also extends its sincere appreciation to Mr Norman Gwangwadza, who has been serving as acting general secretary.
“The executive committee thanks him for his service and contribution to the Association. Zifa looks forward to the continued support of all stakeholders as we work together to grow, strengthen and transform football in Zimbabwe.”
Manwa’s reinstatement is seen as a major boost for the Magwizi-led executive as they look to stabilise and transform the local game.
Her extensive experience, particularly her successful stint steering Ngezi Platinum Stars and her previous tenure navigating the complex waters of the Zifa Normalisation Committee, positions her as a safe and highly-competent pair of hands to drive the association’s strategic vision forward.