Game-On Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S consistent qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations finals is a positive sign but the country needs to establish a sustainable football ecosystem.
This was said by aspiring ZIFA board member, Tafadzwa Benza in Gweru, where he addressed central region councillors at Bata Sports Club on Wednesday afternoon.
An actuarial scientist by profession, Benza is renowned for his passion for football development.
As the son of Innocent Benza, Tafadzwa runs the Herentals football empire that comprises a Premier Soccer League team, a Division One side and four Division Two teams.
Plans are afoot for Herentals to add three more Division Two teams across the country.
Herentals also have a women’s team in the Premier Soccer League.
“I briefed the councillors on my work experience at both Herentals Group of Colleges and the football development side.
“We also run a breast cancer awareness through our pink kits,” said Benza.
Herentals were the best club from Harare in the 2024 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League.
They finished fifth.
“Herentals has played a pivotal role in football development through the four Division Two teams and a Division One team.
“We will have three more Division Two teams this season.
“My passion for football development is well documented.
“But we need to create a sustainable football ecosystem.
“As a football administrator I am aware of the problems that we encounter as a nation and how we can solve them.
Benza predicts a brighter future for Zimbabwean football.
“It’s quite positive, we have had successes in qualifying for Afcon, but we need to develop the youngsters from grassroots level.
“We need to improve the quality of our players so that the standards of play rise and we can also export more players,” said Benza.
