FOOTBALL administrative veteran Modern Ngwenya wants to help transform Zifa from a struggling association to a rich one, where they can rack in at least US$10 million in the next four years.
Ngwenya is in the running to become one of six ordinary board members and he has come up with good strategies that can help Zifa as part of his election promises.
The former Highlanders vice-chairman is one of 39 candidates who are contesting for the six slots, but he is certainly one of the favourites due to the experience and expertise he has gathered over the years.
He initially registered interest in contesting for the vice-president post but later decided to relegate himself to just an ordinary board member to give other candidates from the Southern Region a chance.
Peter Dube, Kenny Ndebele and Omega Sibanda are all from the Southern Region and are in the running for the vice-president post alongside other candidates that include James Takavada and Francis Nyamutsamba.
Ngwenya’s extensive experience in football administration positions him as a qualified candidate for the executive committee.
His tenure as vice-chairman of Highlanders from February 2016 to January 2022 was marked by significant achievements, including the successful negotiation of crucial sponsorships that bolstered the club’s financial stability.
“Ngwenya’s role as acting chairman during a pivotal period for the club further underscores his leadership capabilities, showcasing his ability to steer an organisation through challenges while maintaining a focus on long-term goals,” part of his manifesto reads.
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He envisions the association increasing its revenue through sponsorship and broadcasting rights by 30%.
He says Zifa can “grow revenue to US$10 million within the next four years and allocate 60% of revenue towards grassroots development, 20% towards competitions and events, and 20% towards marketing and commercial activities”.
Ngwenya sees Zimbabwean football not only thriving domestically, but also competes effectively on the international stage.
His pragmatic approach to leadership is grounded in collaboration and inclusivity.
He understands that the strength of football lies in its community — players, coaches, fans and administrators, which should work in unison to foster an environment where talent can flourish.
His mission and vision also include “to promote and develop football in the country, fostering a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and sportsmanship. Become a leading football association, renowned for producing talented players, hosting world-class events and inspiring a passionate fan base”.
He hopes that Zifa can increase grassroots participation by 40% within the next four years, host a minimum of two international tournaments within the next five years, increase revenue by 30% within the next four years through sponsorships, broadcasting rights and licensing as well as maintain a transparent and accountable governance structure, ensuring compliance with international football governing bodies.
Ngwenya has got vast experience, having been Highlanders vice-chairman for six years in a period where he also acted as chairman.
Some of the achievements at Highlanders include facilitating a pre-season tour for the club in South Africa as well as negotiating sponsorship with financial institution BancABC.
He runs an annual soccer jamboree in Lower Gweru and outstanding players are taken to professional clubs for further assessment and possibly employment.
Furthermore, his instrumental role in clinching a three-year US$3 million sponsorship deal with Sakunda Holdings for Highlanders FC showcases his capacity to attract significant investments that can transform the landscape of Zimbabwean football.
