Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has intensified efforts to strengthen grassroots football development by conducting another CAF D Coaching Course, this time in Chitungwiza, as part of its nationwide coach education programme.
The training, which runs from July 15 to 24, has enrolled 38 aspiring coaches who are receiving instruction in contemporary coaching methods, technical skills, and player development to improve football at the community level.
Experienced coach educator Tafadzwa Mashiri is facilitating the programme, which forms part of ZIFA’s strategy to expand access to CAF-accredited coaching qualifications while raising coaching standards across Zimbabwe.
ZIFA said coach education remains central to its long-term football development agenda, with the association committed to creating sustainable pathways for identifying and nurturing talent from the grassroots.
“By expanding access to CAF-accredited coaching courses, ZIFA is ensuring that more communities have qualified coaches capable of identifying, developing, and inspiring the next generation of Zimbabwean football talent. The emphasis is not only on producing more coaches but on producing better coaches.
“Modern football demands practitioners who understand player development, safeguarding, sports science, coaching methodology and the values that shape well-rounded athletes. Through the CAF D curriculum, participants receive a strong foundation that prepares them for continued learning and progression through the CAF coaching licence pathway,” ZIFA said.
Mashiri applauded the participants for their commitment throughout the course, describing coach education as a critical investment in the country’s football future.
“It has been encouraging to see the passion and willingness to learn from everyone attending the course. Coach education is the foundation of player development, and by investing in coaches, we are investing in the future of Zimbabwean football.
“We want participants to leave here with knowledge they can immediately apply in their communities while continuing to grow throughout their coaching journey,” said Mashiri.
The Chitungwiza programme is among several CAF D coaching courses being rolled out across the country as ZIFA decentralises coach education to ensure aspiring coaches in every province have access to professional training opportunities.
Widely regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s most productive football nurseries, Chitungwiza has produced numerous outstanding players and coaches who have made a lasting impact on both domestic and international football.
The town is home to respected football figures including Wellington Shangiwa, Never Gombera, Casper Mukara, Lloyd Chitembwe, Norman Mapeza, Edmore Ncube and Ralph Kawondera, cementing its status as one of the country’s football strongholds.
New Ziana
