In a significant move to enhance youth football development in the region, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Technical Director Mr Jethro Hunidzarira held a pivotal meeting on Monday at the Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex with members of the Chitungwiza Junior Football Development League.

He was accompanied by Mr Jacob Chavhungama who is ZIFA Talent Identification and Development Officer.

The meeting aimed to discuss collaborative efforts to promote grassroots football and provide support for aspiring young athletes. ZIFA’s Technical Director emphasized the importance of nurturing talent at a young age, underscoring that a strong foundation in youth football is essential for the future of Zimbabwean football.

During the discussions, various topics were addressed, including coaching programs, talent identification, and the establishment of structured competitions to foster competitive spirit among the youth. The Technical Director highlighted ZIFA’s commitment to investing resources and expertise into youth leagues, ensuring that young players receive proper training and opportunities to excel.

“We believe that engaging with local leagues like Chitungwiza’s is crucial for the growth of football in our country,” said the Technical Director. “By working together, we can create a more robust framework that will not only enhance the skill set of our young footballers but also instill values of teamwork and discipline.”

The Chitungwiza Junior Football Development League, known for its vibrant participation among local youths, expressed gratitude for the support and pledged to work closely with ZIFA to implement the discussed strategies. League representatives shared their commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all children, regardless of their background, can participate in football.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for both ZIFA and the Chitungwiza league to collaborate on upcoming training camps and tournaments, aiming to attract more youth to the sport and elevate the overall standards of football in the region.

As football continues to unite communities across Zimbabwe, initiatives like this one are vital in ensuring that the nation’s future stars are well-equipped to shine on both local and international stages.