News / National
Kennedy Ndebele aims to revive Zimbabwean football
15 hrs ago | Views
Kennedy Ndebele, a candidate for the ZIFA vice-presidency, has pledged to use his extensive experience and passion for football to rejuvenate the sport in Zimbabwe. As the January 25 elections approach, Ndebele will face competition from Omega Sibanda, Peter Dube, James Takavada, and Francis Nyamutsamba.
The outgoing Premier Soccer League (PSL) chief executive officer expressed his concern over the setbacks Zimbabwean football has faced in recent years, citing governance challenges, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the nation's suspension from FIFA membership as key contributors to its decline. He emphasized the need for significant reform to restore the sport's reputation and functionality.
"I have a passion for football and want to share my 25 years of experience in administration and management to address the challenges that have stifled football development over the past 15 years," Ndebele said. He believes that Zimbabwean football requires a complete overhaul in governance and operational approaches to rebuild its foundations and ensure sustainable growth.
Ndebele underscored the critical role of the ZIFA vice-president, describing it as central to shaping the association's policies, strategic plans, and operational oversight. He stressed the importance of working collaboratively with the ZIFA president and other stakeholders to implement effective programs and reforms. Transparency and accountability, he said, would be essential in rebuilding trust with FIFA, CAF, the government, and local communities.
One of Ndebele's priorities, if elected, is to revamp communication and marketing strategies to improve ZIFA's public image and attract sponsorship. He also highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure development, calling on the government and private sector to support the construction and renovation of stadia to meet international standards.
Youth and grassroots development emerged as another critical area in Ndebele's plan. He emphasized the importance of engaging schools and academies to nurture young talent while ensuring that clubs, schools, and academies producing players are compensated fairly. Women's and amateur football also feature prominently in his vision for an inclusive and comprehensive approach to football development.
Ndebele declared zero tolerance for corruption, citing its detrimental impact on the association's reputation and its ability to attract sponsorships. "In order for us to attract sponsorship, the association must project a good image and maintain a reputation of integrity," he said.
With a career spanning several leadership roles in football, including serving as Highlanders' secretary and chairman, as well as coordinating the 2009 COSAFA tournament, Ndebele brings a wealth of experience to the table. His academic credentials include a Science Politics and Administration (Hons) Degree from the University of Zimbabwe, a Diploma in Management of Olympic Sport Organisations from the IOC, and a FIFA FUTURO III Regional Instructor Administration and Management Certificate.
As the elections draw closer, Ndebele's comprehensive vision and track record position him as a strong candidate to lead the revival of Zimbabwean football and restore its former glory.
The outgoing Premier Soccer League (PSL) chief executive officer expressed his concern over the setbacks Zimbabwean football has faced in recent years, citing governance challenges, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the nation's suspension from FIFA membership as key contributors to its decline. He emphasized the need for significant reform to restore the sport's reputation and functionality.
"I have a passion for football and want to share my 25 years of experience in administration and management to address the challenges that have stifled football development over the past 15 years," Ndebele said. He believes that Zimbabwean football requires a complete overhaul in governance and operational approaches to rebuild its foundations and ensure sustainable growth.
Ndebele underscored the critical role of the ZIFA vice-president, describing it as central to shaping the association's policies, strategic plans, and operational oversight. He stressed the importance of working collaboratively with the ZIFA president and other stakeholders to implement effective programs and reforms. Transparency and accountability, he said, would be essential in rebuilding trust with FIFA, CAF, the government, and local communities.
One of Ndebele's priorities, if elected, is to revamp communication and marketing strategies to improve ZIFA's public image and attract sponsorship. He also highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure development, calling on the government and private sector to support the construction and renovation of stadia to meet international standards.
Youth and grassroots development emerged as another critical area in Ndebele's plan. He emphasized the importance of engaging schools and academies to nurture young talent while ensuring that clubs, schools, and academies producing players are compensated fairly. Women's and amateur football also feature prominently in his vision for an inclusive and comprehensive approach to football development.
Ndebele declared zero tolerance for corruption, citing its detrimental impact on the association's reputation and its ability to attract sponsorships. "In order for us to attract sponsorship, the association must project a good image and maintain a reputation of integrity," he said.
With a career spanning several leadership roles in football, including serving as Highlanders' secretary and chairman, as well as coordinating the 2009 COSAFA tournament, Ndebele brings a wealth of experience to the table. His academic credentials include a Science Politics and Administration (Hons) Degree from the University of Zimbabwe, a Diploma in Management of Olympic Sport Organisations from the IOC, and a FIFA FUTURO III Regional Instructor Administration and Management Certificate.
As the elections draw closer, Ndebele's comprehensive vision and track record position him as a strong candidate to lead the revival of Zimbabwean football and restore its former glory.
Source - newsday
