VP Mukura Launches ZIFA Women’s Football Strategy, Targets Grassroots Growth And National Success

Zimbabwe’s drive to accelerate the growth and professionalisation of women’s football took a major leap yesterday with the launch of the ZIFA Women’s Football Strategy 2025–2028, a blueprint that aims to reshape the women’s game from grassroots to elite levels.

Vice President Loveness Mukura, who officiated the launch in Harare, said the strategy marked a “turning point” for women’s football in Zimbabwe and urged all stakeholders to play their part in building a stronger pipeline for female talent.

“Today we commit to not only recognising the potential of our girls and women in football but to equipping them with every resource and opportunity to thrive,” said VP Mukura. “This strategy speaks to empowerment, equality, and national pride.”

The strategy comes at a time when Zimbabwe lays claim to a growing talent pool, with 2,000 registered female players feeding into four national teams, the Mighty Warriors (senior), U20, U17, and U15 squads. They compete in four active regional leagues across the country, providing much needed match experience and visibility.

ZIFA officials said the strategy focuses on four key pillars: boosting grassroots participation, developing coaching and officiating, improving infrastructure, and enhancing governance and commercial opportunities. It includes ambitious plans to broaden the national talent scouting net, increase school engagement, and strengthen partnerships with corporate sponsors to ensure financial sustainability.

Women’s football in Zimbabwe has historically battled challenges including inconsistent funding, inadequate facilities, and limited media coverage. Players have often juggled sport and work without formal contracts or welfare protections. VP Mukura acknowledged these hurdles but said government support, coupled with strategic planning, will fuel the game’s long term success.

“This is a moment of transformation,” she said. “Our girls must see football not just as a pastime, but as a viable career path. We have the talent, now we’re building the structure.”

ZIFA Women’s Football Chairperson, (name), described the strategy as “a roadmap to unlocking Zimbabwe’s full potential in the women’s game,” adding that collaboration between ZIFA, government, regional associations, and development partners will be vital.

The Mighty Warriors, who have previously made a mark on the continental stage, stand to benefit from the enhanced development pipelines, while younger age group teams will likely benefit from greater exposure and structured development pathways.

With the strategy now launched, stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether its goals are matched by implementation and impact, both on the pitch and in transforming the lives of girls and women who dream of playing the beautiful game.