By Connect Stories Africa Reporter
Former Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Vice President Omega Sibanda,who is running for another stint in football administration, is confident that he can reignite the unforeseen glory days of the soccer mother body.
Sibanda was born in Lower Gweru and raised in Gweru before training and working in Bulawayo, where he is now a businessman and farmer.
For the vice-president’s post, he will face off against experienced administrators Francis Nyamutsamba, Peter Dube, Kennedy Ndebele, and Simba Takavada.
Sibanda has pledged to advocate for the respect and recognition of ZIFA councillors and the sport’s legends, both on and off the field. This includes ensuring access to soccer matches and introducing other empowerment initiatives.
“I believe councillors must not only come to the spotlight during the election season but must be given their rightful place as the Parliament of Football all year round,” he said.
“I advocate for continuity in ZIFA structures and believe councillors must be allowed to determine the future of our football without fear or favour.
“My vision is to create a robust framework that not only develops young players but also honours the legacy of our sporting heroes, ensuring their contributions are valued and supported.”
The ZIFA elections are set for January 25, pending the outcomes of court applications launched by candidates who were disqualified for failing to produce five O-Level results.
Central to Sibanda’s strategy is putting stakeholder engagement at the centre of football matters.
“I recognize that ZIFA’s success hinges on collaboration with fans, leagues, former players, corporate partners, the government, other sporting codes, and former administrators.
“By fostering these relationships, I believe ZIFA can become more attractive and generate the support necessary for sustainable growth,” he said.
Sibanda also highlights football’s potential as a vehicle for addressing pressing societal issues, including youth drug abuse.
By engaging young people through structured football programs, he aims to provide constructive alternatives to substance abuse, promoting personal development and community cohesion.
His approach emphasizes creating an environment where young athletes can thrive both on and off the pitch.
“I believe ZIFA must also give opportunities to people with disabilities. There are many teams made up of people with disabilities, and they must be supported in terms of material resources and manpower.
“Our Warriors and Mighty Warriors cannot continue playing home games away from home!” said Sibanda.