Zimbabwe Aquatic Union in Turmoil: Governance Issues Spark Conflict

By Enia Dube

The Zimbabwe Aquatic Union (ZAU) is facing severe governance issues, prompting intervention from the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) and Zimbabwe Swimming. 

ZAU’s failure to convene Annual General Meetings (AGMs), hold elections, and circulate financial statements has raised concerns among members. Additionally, the union’s failure to reimburse Zimbabwe Swimming’s World Aquatics OASP grants has exacerbated tensions.
 
The issues led Zimbabwe Swimming to seek direction from the SRC, citing ZAU’s breach of governance. However, after three months of inaction and unresponsive emails, Zimbabwe Swimming recommended escalating the matter to the International Governing body.

In a positive development, ZAU also called for a Special General Meeting on December 16, 2023, to adopt a new Constitution, paving the way for an elective AGM. Zimbabwe Swimming emphasized that ZAU should follow its 2009 Constitution until the new one is adopted.

Last year the allegations of a feud between Zimbabwe Swimming and Zimbabwe Waterpolo Chairs were denied, Zimbabwe Swimming clarified that swimming and waterpolo disciplines are managed separately.