Philemon Jambaya
Zim Now Editor
The recent decision by the Zimbabwe Football Association Normalisation Committee to deny resources to the Under 17 girls team has sparked widespread disappointment and concern among Zimbabwean football fans.
The Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association has issued a statement calling on all stakeholders to provide holistic support to the girl child, especially in football. The association highlighted the remarkable achievements of the Mighty Warriors, Zimbabwe's senior women's national football team, who made history by participating in the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil.
"The failure to provide resources to the U17 girls team is a setback for women's football in Zimbabwe," said Joseph Mutawu, President of ZNSSA. "We urge all stakeholders to join hands in supporting the girl child in football, as this will not only promote national pride but also empower her to become a confident and inspiring leader."
Aspiring ZIFA Executive Board Member, Kudzai Kadzombe, echoed the sentiments of ZNSSA, emphasizing the importance of supporting the girl child in football.
"It's imperative that we invest in women's football, particularly at the grassroots level," said Kadzombe. "By supporting the U17 girls team and other women's football initiatives, we can create a pipeline of talented players who can represent Zimbabwe at the highest level. Moreover, football can be a powerful tool for empowering girls and promoting gender equality."
Kadzombe added that supporting women's football is not only a moral imperative but also a sound investment strategy.
"Studies have shown that investing in women's football can have a positive impact on the economy, education, and healthcare," said Kadzombe. "By supporting women's football, we can create a virtuous cycle of development that benefits not only the girls and women involved but also the broader community."
The ZNSSA has called on all stakeholders, including government, civil society, the private sector, and individuals, to provide support to the U17 girls team and other women's football initiatives. This includes increased investment in women's football infrastructure, training, and resources, as well as initiatives to promote women's football and challenge societal attitudes that discourage girls from participating in sports.
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