THE Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) has expressed delight at hosting the Cosafa elective annual general assembly, set to take place in the capital tomorrow.
The high-stakes congress will bring together member associations from across Southern Africa to elect new leadership and set the regional body’s strategic direction. The election will be conducted by secret ballot under the supervision of the Cosafa electoral committee to ensure transparency.
Caf president Patrice Motsepe is expected to attend, marking his second visit to Zimbabwe in a month, following the Caf African Schools Football Championship held in April.
Zifa said hosting the congress reflects Zimbabwe’s efforts to strengthen governance structures, enhance regional cooperation, and restore the association’s credibility.
Cosafa confirmed that eight candidates cleared integrity and eligibility checks.
While the positions of president (Oabile Thona Tariq Babitseng), vice-president (Alfred Randriamanampisoa), and the reserved women’s seat (Brenda Kunda) are uncontested, the competition for the executive committee remains a highlight.
Five candidates — including Zifa president Magwizi, Lijane Nthunya (Lesotho), Robert Shimooshili (Namibia), Linda Zwane (South Africa), and Peter Simelane (Eswatini) — will contest four ordinary executive committee seats.
Cosafa executive director Sue Destombes said preparations were complete and praised Zifa and stakeholders for their support, adding that the congress will be conducted in line with Cosafa statutes.
- Abused female refs take on Zhoya's accomplices
- Zifa audit report takes centre stage at EGM
- Caf ‘A’ coaching licence now mandatory: Zifa
- Warriors duo plead for Zifa/SRC truce
Keep Reading
Magwizi said Zimbabwe was honoured to host the event.
He shared the nation’s enthusiasm, noting that the event is a milestone for the local game.
“It is a great honour for Zimbabwe to host the Cosafa elective congress in Harare,” said Magwizi.
He said the congress reflects growing confidence in Zimbabwe as a football nation and reinforces cooperation among regional associations.
“As Zifa, we see this congress as part of the broader journey to restore Zimbabwe football’s standing within the region and beyond,” he said.
Magwizi added that football development requires collaboration and shared learning across borders.
As delegates arrive in Harare, Zimbabwe will be in the spotlight as host and a key stakeholder in the future of southern African football.
