HARARE, Zimbabwe | Phillemon Machana, vying for the ZIFA presidency in elections set for Saturday, is banking on his extensive business and football governance experience to transform Zimbabwean football.
A Chartered Secretary with a CIS qualification, Machana holds a law degree with distinction, an MBA, and is pursuing a Doctorate in Business Leadership. He has over 20 years of experience in governance and business, spanning industries such as food, motor, banking, and real estate.
“I have served in governance and business for more than two decades, and those experiences have prepared me to lead Zimbabwean football,” Machana said, emphasizing his commitment to transparency and growth in the sport.
His football administration credentials include a role as ZIFA Board Member responsible for finance, where he oversaw critical reforms. Machana believes his financial expertise and leadership skills make him well-suited to tackle challenges, including governance issues and financial instability.
Facing off against Machana are Twine Phiri, Nqobile Magwizi, Makwinji Soma Phiri and Marshall Gore.
Machana aims to restore credibility to Zimbabwean football by addressing transparency concerns and driving development. “With a strong financial background and governance experience, I am confident in my ability to deliver results and usher in a new era for Zimbabwean football,” he said. He emphasized his deep commitment to the growth of football in the country, noting that his professional background spans a variety of industries, including food, motor, banking, and real estate. “I am deeply committed to the growth of football, bringing extensive experience to the table,” Machana added.
Machana’s career in football administration stretches over two decades, including a notable tenure as a ZIFA Board Member responsible for finance. He believes his dual background in business and football governance uniquely positions him to drive the transformation of Zimbabwean football.
“As someone with a strong financial background and extensive experience in both governance and business, I am confident in my ability to bring the necessary changes to ensure the growth and success of Zimbabwean football,” he said.
Machana’s candidacy comes at a time when ZIFA faces challenges related to transparency, financial stability, and governance. He believes his extensive experience positions him as a leader capable of delivering results and ushering Zimbabwean football on an upward trajectory of success and credibility.
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