The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has unveiled an ambitious plan to host refresher courses for local coaches holding Confederation of African Football (CAF) A, B, and C coaching badges. This move represents a significant step in the development of football in Zimbabwe, as it aims to provide domestic mentors with a convenient and cost-effective avenue to maintain and upgrade their coaching credentials.
In recent years, Zimbabwean coaches seeking to renew or enhance their CAF certifications have often faced the challenge of traveling abroad, with countries such as Tanzania and Botswana serving as the nearest options. This not only imposed financial burdens but also limited access for many local coaches. By bringing the refresher courses to Zimbabwe, ZIFA hopes to remove these obstacles, creating a more inclusive system that encourages continuous professional development within the country.
The refresher courses will be offered at a flat fee of US$300, making them accessible to a broad range of participants. ZIFA officials have emphasized that the fees have been structured to cover administrative costs while ensuring affordability for coaches across all levels of the domestic game. By lowering financial barriers, the association aims to attract both experienced and emerging coaches, fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
High-profile local coaches are expected to feature prominently in the upcoming courses. Among those set to participate are Highlanders assistant coach Try Ncube, former Bulawayo Chiefs head coach Thulani “Thuts” Sibanda, Bongani Mafu, and legendary striker Peter “Nsukuzonke” Ndlovu. Their involvement is likely to provide both inspiration and mentorship to other participants, highlighting the value of ongoing professional development and the importance of staying current with CAF’s coaching standards.
ZIFA’s initiative reflects a broader strategy to strengthen domestic football by improving coaching quality. Well-trained coaches are widely recognized as a cornerstone of successful football programs, as they directly influence player development, tactical sophistication, and the overall competitiveness of clubs and national teams. By ensuring that Zimbabwean coaches can access up-to-date training within their own country, ZIFA is taking an important step toward raising the standard of the domestic game.
ZIFA to Launch Coach Refresher Programs
The association has also stressed that these refresher courses are not merely a bureaucratic formality but a genuine opportunity for professional growth. Participants will engage with contemporary coaching methodologies, tactical innovations, and updated regulations as outlined by CAF. The courses are expected to include practical sessions, classroom discussions, and case studies designed to enhance problem-solving skills, tactical awareness, and player management capabilities.
Moreover, ZIFA’s decision to host the courses locally is expected to encourage greater collaboration and networking among coaches from different clubs and regions. These interactions can foster the exchange of ideas, experiences, and best practices, helping to create a more unified coaching community in Zimbabwe. Such collaboration is likely to have a ripple effect on player performance and team cohesion, benefiting clubs across all levels of the domestic league system.
The timing of the refresher courses also aligns with ZIFA’s broader goals of preparing coaches for upcoming competitions at both domestic and international levels. As Zimbabwean teams continue to participate in CAF tournaments and other regional competitions, having coaches who are well-trained and current with international standards is critical to achieving success. By equipping coaches with the latest knowledge and techniques, the association aims to ensure that Zimbabwean football remains competitive on the continental stage.
ZIFA officials have expressed optimism that the initiative will be widely embraced by local coaches. In addition to improving technical skills, the courses are expected to instill a renewed sense of professionalism and accountability within the coaching community. Coaches who complete the refresher programs will not only retain their CAF certifications but will also emerge better prepared to mentor players, implement strategic plans, and contribute to the growth of football in Zimbabwe.
In conclusion, ZIFA’s decision to conduct local refresher courses for CAF-certified coaches represents a major milestone in the country’s football development agenda. By removing financial and logistical barriers, involving high-profile mentors, and providing comprehensive training aligned with international standards, the association is taking decisive steps to strengthen domestic coaching standards. For Zimbabwean football, the initiative promises to cultivate a new generation of knowledgeable, skilled, and professional coaches capable of elevating the game to new heights.
Source- Bulawayo24
