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Mehluli Sibanda – [email protected]
THE Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has given an update on its engagements with a delegation from the Fédération Internationale de Football (Fifa) and the Confederation of African Football (Caf).

Officials from Fifa and Caf have been in the country since Monday on a fact finding mission. In a statement released yesterday, the SRC indicated that in all the engagements with various stakeholders, the need to have robust, legitimate governance structures to aid Zimbabwe’s return to international football.

“The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) wishes to inform the public that in response to an invitation, representatives from Fifa and the Confederation of African Football (Caf) arrived in Zimbabwe for a fact-finding mission, which commenced on the week of April 17th, 2023.

Throughout the week, FIFA and Caf engaged various stakeholders and officials involved in Zimbabwean football to gather their perspectives.

A common sentiment among these stakeholders was the need for strong, lawful governance structures to support Zimbabwe’s return to international football, as well as a commitment to implementing necessary reforms for the sport’s future development and success in the country,’’ said the SRC.

In the update, the SRC also indicated that they had fruitful discussions with Fifa and Caf as well as Cosafa.

“The SRC has also been involved in productive discussions with Fifa and Caf, including Cosafa, with a mutual goal of resolving the issues surrounding the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa).
The conversations have been marked by good faith from all parties and a genuine interest in advancing solutions.

“The outcomes of these discussions have been promising, with the SRC, Caf, and Fifa generally agreeing on the next steps to address Zifa’s current situation. “The Commission deeply appreciates the firm support and positions taken by all stakeholders involved in this week’s consultations. These stakeholders have been clear about the changes needed in Zimbabwean football and have collectively called for a swift resolution to Zifa’s challenges.

Zifa

The SRC acknowledges and accepts these calls for action and commits to utilizing the positive relationships it has built with FIFA and Caf over the past year, particularly during this week’s meetings, to work towards resolving Zifa’s encumbered status,’’ further stated the SRC.

In conclusion, the SRC assured the nation of an update to be given in the first week of May. — @Mdawini_29.