In the storied annals of Zimbabwean football, few figures exemplify the essence of unwavering dedication and innovative foresight like mine — Omega Sibanda.
Originating from Lower Gweru, my remarkable journey through the labyrinthine corridors of football administration is a narrative enriched with relentless commitment, strategic acumen, and an unshakeable belief in the transformative potential of sport.
As I prepare to vie for the esteemed position of vice president of the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa), my extensive experience and visionary ideals position me as a formidable candidate, poised to redefine the landscape of football in Zimbabwe working as a team with my board.
My foray into the realm of football commenced at the Central Vehicle Mechanical Department (CMED), where my pivotal role propelled the team to promotion from Division 4 to Division 3 run by Zifa.
I was elected as secretary general in 1986 and this marked the inception of a career characterised by leadership and ambition.
This early experience not only sharpened my administrative skills, but also ignited a fervent passion for football development that would resonate throughout my career.
At the age of 21, I was elected secretary general of the Highlanders FC’s Gweru Chapter, solidifying my reputation as a prodigious talent in football governance.
My ascent to life membership at Highlanders FC in 1987 further exemplified my unwavering commitment to the club and the sport at large.
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Through various roles within the Highlanders FC executive committee, I adeptly navigated the complexities of fundraising, securing sponsorship deals with notable brands such as Savanna, Pacific, and Xylocom.
These initiatives transcended mere financial transactions; they represented a strategic vision aimed at revitalising one of Zimbabwe’s most storied football institutions.
My entrepreneurial spirit flourished with my acquisition of Windermere Hotel, leading to the formation of FC Windermere.
Under my stewardship, the team ascended through the ranks from Division 2 to Division 1 before I sold the franchise to Bulawayo Chiefs FC.
Initially coached by Amin Soma Phiri, FC Windermere later thrived under the guidance of the renowned Tavaka Gumbo, assisted by Nkosana Sancho Gumbo.
This venture transcended ownership; it was a manifestation of my unwavering belief in nurturing local talent.
Players like Milton Ncube, Richard Jongwe, and Shepherd Maregere emerged from FC Windermere, epitomising my commitment to nurturing the next generation of football stars.
My tenure as president of the Zimbabwe Player Agents Association underscored my pivotal role in player management, where I adeptly managed talents like Mthulisi Maphosa, Carrington Gomba, Gilbert Zulu, Elvis Meleka, Evans Rusike and Tendai Ndoro, just to mention but a few.
I facilitated their placement in clubs across Botswana, South Africa, and Cyprus.
My influence extended beyond player transactions; I was instrumental in the appointments of reputable coaches, including Rahman Gumbo, Willard Khumalo, Muhammad Fati, etc, further solidifying my status as a key figure in Zimbabwean football.
Notably, I also helped strengthen Mimosa FC, which later evolved to FC Platinum in terms of player and coach acquisition when the team was promoted to the PSL.
As one of the founding members of five-aside football in the region, together with Shepherd Mpemba and Philani Banda, who is the current chairman, I served as secretary general in the late 1990s.
My leadership facilitated games at Portuguese Club, Archers Sports Club, and ZITF, with players like Zenzo Moyo achieving remarkable feats, including international competitions in Harare and FUTSAL World Cup Egypt.
Prior to my tenure at Zifa, I made significant contributions as a Highlanders FC executive member.
In 2015, I ascended to the Zifa board as vice president under Cuthbert Dube, inheriting a legacy fraught with challenges, including financial instability and a pervasive lack of transparency.
My forthrightness in addressing these issues, albeit at a personal cost, epitomised my unwavering commitment to accountability — a principle I hold dear.
My dedication and determination to raise these critical issues reflect my deep-seated belief that transparency is foundational to restoring trust in football governance.
My clashes with Dube over issues of governance bear testimony to that.
With the dawn of a new leadership era under Philip Chiyangwa, Zifa experienced a renaissance, where I played a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s qualification for the Afcon in Gabon — a monumental achievement that reverberated throughout the nation.
Our collaborative efforts also orchestrated the successful hosting of the Cosafa Women’s tournament in Bulawayo, showcasing local talent while underscoring the economic benefits of sports tourism.
I served in several Zifa fundraising committees ahead of the first dance of the Warriors in an Afcon tournament where I helped bring in Soul Brothers, Simon Chimbetu and other artists to perform at Barbourfields Stadium to raise funds for the team at a time I was not even seeking an office at the national association.
My contributions extend to serving as a CAF match commissioner for five-aside soccer.
When I was a Member of Parliament, I also served in the parliamentary portfolio committee on sport, where I spoke extensively in Parliament about the Sports Bill.
As I embark on my campaign for the Zifa vice presidency, I present a vision that is both ambitious and pragmatic.
My unfinished business from previous executives fuels my resolve to pursue constitutionalism, ensuring that administrators operate without hindrance.
My advocacy for transparency and accountability across all Zifa structures is not mere rhetoric; it is a commitment to building and fostering a culture of integrity within the organization.
Central to my vision is the establishment of comprehensive development programs for both male and female players.
I aim to prioritise junior leagues and women’s football, advocating for all Premier Soccer League (PSL) teams to field youth and female teams in alignment with club licensing requirements.
My strategy emphasises nurturing talent from a young age, ensuring that the future of Zimbabwean football is both inclusive and competitive.
I aim to rigorously work hand in glove with NASH, NAPH, and tertiary colleges to see skills development of future soccer stars cultivated from an early age.
My ambitious 10-year strategy aims to revolutionize Zimbabwean football through grassroots initiatives.
I envision a system that identifies and nurtures talent from rural areas and towns, ensuring that aspiring footballers have access to quality training and resources.
By tapping into the potential of diaspora players, I will seek to create a robust scouting network that identifies talent both locally and internationally, reinforcing national teams with the best available players.
Moreover, my commitment to technical development is unwavering.
I envision a restructured technical committee ensuring essential coaching badges are readily available, led by a qualified technical director.
I am steadfast in my commitment to elevating our referees through rigorous beginner courses, refresher courses, and international courses, ensuring their professionalism and expertise.
My vision is for them to confidently officiate at Caf tournaments and the World Cup finals, representing our excellence on the global stage.
Under my leadership, vital resources such as soccer balls and training equipment will be accessible to all aspiring players, inspired by successful models in Brazil and other footballing nations.
I am advocating for subsidising of Caf and Uefa licence fees for coaches, particularly female coaches, and facilitating international placements for further qualifications.
I do recognise football’s potential as a vehicle for addressing pressing societal issues, including youth drug abuse.
By engaging young people through structured football programmes, I aim to provide constructive alternatives to substance abuse, promoting personal development and community cohesion.
My approach emphasises creating an environment where young athletes can thrive both on and off the pitch.
Additionally, I am committed to ensuring that junior teams participate in international tournaments, such as Caf and Fifa World Cup events.
I believe exposure to competitive environments is crucial for nurturing high-quality players capable of representing Zimbabwe on the global stage.
A critical component of my strategy is enhancing Zifa’s marketing and financial sustainability.
I will advocate for a proactive marketing committee to source sponsorship and commercial opportunities, transforming Zifa into an attractive brand for potential investors.
This radical transformation agenda seeks to elevate the profile of Zimbabwean football, ensuring it commands the respect and support it deserves.
I will emphasise collaboration between the finance committee and the secretariat, envisioning a finance team focused on oversight rather than interference.
By building a culture of collaboration, I will aim to ensure that financial resources are allocated effectively to support football development initiatives.
My vision includes establishing a First Instance Board (grounds committee) tasked with ensuring the quality of playing surfaces across the country.
This committee will engage local authorities to improve facilities, recognizing that quality playing fields are integral to player development and performance.
Furthermore, I propose a monitoring and evaluation committee to assess the effectiveness of Zifa’s initiatives, ensuring accountability and transparency across all facets of the organisation.
I am acutely aware of the importance of communication in nurturing engagement with stakeholders.
I plan to ensure that the media desk is staffed with qualified personnel capable of disseminating timely and accurate information.
By enhancing Zifa’s online presence and social media engagement, I will aim to foster a more connected and informed football community.
I am unequivocally committed to revitalising and making sure that FUTSAL is funded from under-13s, ensuring that young talent is nurtured and skills are honed from an early age.
I, with my team, will work hard and take our Zimbabwe teams for international tournaments.
Also, by collaborating with government and correctional services, I aim to integrate FUTSAL into rehabilitation programmes, effectively addressing social issues while building and developing talent among inmates.
I am resolutely committed to elevating beach soccer, ensuring it receives the attention and funding it deserves.
My unwavering goal is to establish our presence in international competitions, showcasing our talent on the global stage.
Together, we will cultivate a thriving beach soccer community that inspires passion and fosters excellence and brilliance in this dynamic sport.
Under my leadership, I envision a robust competition framework where juniors and seniors engage in spirited contests.
A dynamic competition committee will make sure all leagues from juniors to seniors for both men and women play.
Together with my team, we will make sure that the Zifa Cup and other national competitions are played across the country fostering growth, unity, and excellence across all levels. Together, we will elevate the competitive spirit.
Furthermore, I will advocate for the respect and recognition of our soccer legends, both on and off the field.
This includes proposing access to games, empowerment initiatives, and essential medical assistance through partnerships with clubs.
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.
Central to my strategy is emphasizing stakeholder engagement. I recognise that Zifa’s success hinges on collaboration with fans, leagues, former players, corporate partners, and former administrators.
By fostering these relationships, I believe Zifa can become more attractive and generate the support necessary for sustainable growth.
My respect for the council and its continuity reflects my understanding of governance dynamics within Zifa.
I appreciate that the assembly plays a critical role in the success of any football initiative and is committed to building an environment where all voices are heard and valued.
I will make sure the council, which acts as the Parliament of Football, is respected and must be given a renewed mandate to continue serving football with present councillors.
As Omega Sibanda, I seek the support of the football community for my candidacy.
I present a compelling vision grounded in experience, integrity, and a profound love for the game.
My proposals resonate with the aspirations of many, offering a roadmap to a brighter future for Zimbabwean football.
Currently, I serve as the secretary general of FMS Umguza Academy, collaborating with MIsaac Mbedzi, who manages an academy in Canada, while Allan Mpofu oversees operations in Zimbabwe.
In a landscape often marred by challenges, I, Omega Sibanda, stands as a beacon of hope, ready to lead Zimbabwean football into an era defined by progress and renewed passion.
As I call for votes, I do so not merely as a candidate but as a dedicated servant of football, committed to realizing the dreams of countless players and fans across the nation.
The time has come for a visionary leader who can navigate the complexities of football governance and inspire a generation of athletes.
To the councillors, I am that leader and vice president we need to vote for on the 25th of January 2025 to elevate our football landscape in Zimbabwe.
I envision a future where women’s representation is paramount, advocating for a quota within the board to ensure their engagement and involvement in shaping our football destiny. As we go for elections, let unity of purpose prevail.
