Manwa bounces back as ZIFA CEO

Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has reappointed Yvonne Mapika Manwa as its substantive General Secretary, marking her return to the association seven months after the end of her previous tenure.

The association announced the appointment on Wednesday, saying Manwa emerged successful following a competitive recruitment and interview process.

Manwa first assumed the role in 2023 during the administration of the FIFA-appointed Normalisation Committee, which was established to oversee governance reforms and restore normal administration at ZIFA.

The committee was chaired by former Dynamos FC chairman Lincoln Mutasa.

During her previous tenure, Manwa oversaw several key institutional reforms, including the development and adoption of a new ZIFA Constitution, the successful conduct of elections that ushered in the current executive committee, the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Sports and Recreation Commission, the restructuring of the ZIFA secretariat and the launch of the ZIFA Women's Football Strategy for 2025–2028.

Following the election of the current executive led by Nqobile Magwizi, the Normalisation Committee formally handed over administration on 25 January 2025. Manwa remained in office until the expiry of her contract on 31 December 2025.

Announcing her return, ZIFA said the appointment reflects its commitment to strengthening football administration and governance.

"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 association said in a statement.

"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."

Since leaving office, Manwa has remained active in football administration, participating in governance and management training programmes.

In April, she was among participants in an administrators' instructors' course hosted by ZIFA, the first of its kind by an African football association. The programme was facilitated by former FIFA Southern Africa development officer Ashford Mamelodi, who described improved governance as critical to the development of football on the continent.

ZIFA also acknowledged the contribution of Norman Gwangwadza, who served as Acting General Secretary following the end of Manwa's previous contract.

"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," the statement said.

As she resumes office, Manwa is expected to focus on strengthening the ZIFA secretariat and supporting the delivery of the association's football programmes and competitions, including the BancABC Roots Impact Tournament and the ongoing Munhumutapa Cup.