Mnangagwa gifts Warriors US$6,500 bonus each for AFCON qualification

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has hailed the Zimbabwe national football team's qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a historic achievement, describing it as a "milestone sporting stride."

Zimbabwe secured their place at the finals, set to be held in Morocco in December 2025, after finishing second in a challenging qualifying group that included Cameroon, Kenya, and Namibia.

The President hosted the Warriors and members of the technical team, led by German coach Michael Nees, at State House yesterday to celebrate the achievement. He rewarded each player and technical team member with US$6,500, a gesture that drew widespread praise from the attendees.

The Government has also allocated US$1 million to support the team's preparations and participation at the prestigious tournament.

"This achievement is a beacon of hope for our youth and sends a powerful message that, with focus and teamwork, our nation can reach greater heights across any social and economic sphere," President Mnangagwa said during the event.

The President emphasized that the Warriors' success had inspired countless young athletes in Zimbabwe. He urged the team to remain steadfast and patriotic as they prepare for the finals.

"As you prepare for the tournament ahead, I urge you to remain steadfast, patriotic, and good ambassadors of our country," he said.

President Mnangagwa, in a jovial mood, shared lighthearted moments with the players, particularly Khama Billiat and Richard Hachiro, praising their fighting spirit despite their diminutive stature. He awarded Hachiro an additional US$500 for his resilience.

He also welcomed Coach Nees, applauding his efforts as the first foreign coach to lead Zimbabwe to the AFCON finals after overseeing the entire qualifying campaign.

President Mnangagwa expressed pride in the record nine Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries qualifying for the tournament.

"The stronger presence of nine SADC countries highlights our region's growing football prowess," he said, adding humorously that Zimbabwe, as the SADC Chair, would aim to "showcase their dominance" at the tournament.

Reaffirming the Government's dedication to sports development, the President highlighted ongoing projects to refurbish stadia in Bulawayo and Harare and broader support for sports under Vision 2030.

Warriors star Khama Billiat thanked the President for the recognition and support, saying, "We are so happy to be recognised by the President, who took time out of his busy schedule to host us. This support is amazing."

Defender Godknows Murwira echoed the sentiments, appreciating the unwavering Government backing for the team.

The event was attended by several high-profile figures, including acting Sports Minister Kazembe Kazembe, ZIFA Normalisation Committee Chair Lincoln Mutasa, and aspiring ZIFA President Themba Mliswa.

With Government backing and the players' morale at an all-time high, the Warriors are gearing up to make an impact at the 2025 AFCON finals, representing Zimbabwe and SADC with pride.