Temba Mliswa Eyes ZIFA Presidency with Ambitious Campaign

Norton legislator and former Warriors fitness trainer Temba Mliswa has launched an energetic campaign, positioning himself as a top contender for the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidency.

Recently, Mliswa engaged stakeholders in the Northern Region Soccer League (NRSL), outlining his vision for revitalizing local football. He expressed optimism about his plans for change.

“Today, I am sharing my vision for national football,” Mliswa remarked. “It’s exciting to see an election centered on capacity and ideas, which is vital for progress.”

A core aspect of Mliswa’s strategy includes addressing sponsorship challenges, a crucial element for enhancing Zimbabwe’s football ecosystem. He emphasized professionalism and improving match attendance as key drivers.

“Empty stadiums are a glaring issue,” he noted. “We need to develop innovative ways to restore the culture of match attendance and create an engaging football environment.”

According to Mliswa, sponsorship, professionalism, and match attendance are interconnected. He believes that harnessing these elements effectively could unlock football’s growth potential in Zimbabwe.

However, mishandling these areas, he warned, could significantly undermine progress. “Leadership must address these dynamics holistically to avoid setbacks,” Mliswa explained during discussions.

He also highlighted the emergence of new football stakeholders, emphasizing the need for adaptable leadership within ZIFA to meet these evolving demands. His candid remarks underscored his pragmatic approach.

“ZIFA leadership must navigate political and financial complexities,” Mliswa said. “Otherwise, the association risks becoming stagnant and vulnerable to external pressures from powerful entities.”

Mliswa joins a growing list of candidates vying for the ZIFA presidency. Among his competitors are UK-based FIFA agent Ellen Chiwenga and ZIFA Northern Region chairman Martin Kweza.

Other notable contenders include Prophet Walter Magaya, former Warriors winger Alois Bunjira, veteran broadcaster Charles Mabika, and ex-CAPS United president Twine Phiri, illustrating a diverse race.

The campaign for ZIFA’s leadership is shaping up to be a compelling contest, with each candidate presenting unique qualifications and visions for the future of Zimbabwean football.

Mliswa’s candidacy has generated significant interest, as his track record in sports and politics positions him as a formidable contender. The coming weeks promise intense competition.

As Zimbabwean football stands at a crossroads, the race for ZIFA presidency has captured national attention, signaling potential shifts in the governance and future of the beloved sport.