Sakupwanya steps in to help 'Chuchu' Chiweshe

Scottland FC president and legislator Pedzisayi "Scott" Sakupwanya has pledged to cover the expenses of former Dynamos star and coach Elvis "Chuchu" Chiweshe, including outstanding rent, school fees for his children and food.

Sakupwanya said Chiweshe was one of his favourite footballers and expressed sadness that the former Warriors midfielder had reached a difficult point in his life without his knowledge.

Chiweshe has since thanked the legislator for the support and generous gesture.

The intervention comes as concern grows over the welfare of retired Zimbabwean footballers, with Chiweshe's situation renewing calls for Zifa, clubs and other stakeholders to establish sustainable support systems for former players.

Chiweshe, one of the best-known figures in Dynamos history, is reportedly facing financial and health difficulties. He is said to have gone for months without paying rent and is struggling to afford food and medication while battling severe back pain.

His circumstances have once again highlighted the challenges confronting some former players who contributed to the development and success of Zimbabwean football but often face financial difficulties after retirement.

A former member of the Dynamos side that reached the 1998 CAF Champions League final said the situation should serve as a wake-up call for the local football fraternity.

"Dynamos achieved a lot by reaching the CAF Champions League final, and that is something that deserves recognition, particularly in Zimbabwean football," he said.

"Those of us who contributed to that historic achievement also deserve to be acknowledged. I am not taking anything away from anyone, but I believe our efforts and contribution to the game should be recognised."

The former player said some retired footballers were struggling to meet basic needs, including accessing medication.

Chiweshe joined Dynamos from Eagles in 1988 and retired from playing in 1995 after a distinguished career. He later returned to the club as coach and guided the Glamour Boys to the CAF Champions League group stages in 2010.

Although Chiweshe was not part of the Dynamos team that reached the 1998 continental final, his current difficulties have drawn attention to the broader welfare challenges facing retired Zimbabwean footballers.

There are growing calls for the establishment of a former players' welfare fund, affordable medical insurance and pension schemes supported by clubs, Zifa, the Premier Soccer League and corporate partners.

Former players could also be given opportunities in coaching, scouting, administration, schools and grassroots football development, allowing them to remain active in the sport after retirement.

"We need a proper plan for former players. Recognition should not end with celebrating what they achieved on the field; there must also be discussions about their welfare and what they can do after football," the former Dynamos player said.

He said retirement could be particularly difficult for players who lacked reliable sources of income or meaningful opportunities after their playing careers ended.

"There is always something former players can contribute to the game. Unfortunately, we often neglect the very people who helped build Zimbabwean football," he said.