Masvingo-based football administrator and local government official Simbarashe  Mandishona has officially thrown his hat into the ring for a board member position  in the Eastern Region Soccer League, saying the time has come to transform Division One football through professionalism, accountability and sustainable development.

Speaking over the phone, Mandishona said his decision was driven by years of hands-on experience and a deep passion for the growth of the game. “My motivation stems from a deep commitment to football development in our region and over two decades of experience in the sport’s administration,” he said, adding that his time with Masvingo United had exposed him to both the potential and persistent challenges facing community football.

Mandishona’s campaign is anchored on four key pillars: transparency and accountability, sustainable club development, youth and women’s football advancement, and active stakeholder engagement. He said he intends to introduce clear financial management systems with regular reporting to clubs, establish a regional club support programme on governance, and roll out structured junior football competitions across districts. “Too many of our clubs fail to attract sponsorship because they lack clear systems and professionalism. We must fix that if we are serious about growth,” he said.

Responding to criticism that the Eastern Region has struggled with administration in recent years, Mandishona acknowledged the shortcomings but described them as an opportunity for reform. “We need transparent systems in fixtures, discipline and finances, proper documentation for continuity, and an administration that supports clubs instead of just regulating them,” he said. He believes his experience in public service uniquely positions him to drive these reforms.

A key focus of his vision is grassroots football, which has long been neglected in the region. Mandishona plans to introduce district-level leagues for under-13, under-15 and under-17 players, supported by school and community partnerships. “We must start catching talent early and nurture it properly. Without junior football, the future of the game is at risk,” he said.

He also expressed concern over the slow development of women’s football, describing it as “untapped potential.” Mandishona says he will push for the establishment of a regional women’s league, school-based programs for girls, and partnerships with organisations that support women’s empowerment. “Women’s football must not be an afterthought. It must be built deliberately and sustainably,” he said.

Mandishona’s love for football dates back more than three decades. Although he did not play professionally, he was actively involved in community football and went on to work with several clubs in administration. He revealed that he is a devoted Dynamos supporter who grew up inspired by the famous Japa Japa era. He previously contributed to the success of Super Eagles and Douglas Warriors in Marondera, both of which gained promotion into the Premier League, before rising through the ranks at Masvingo United where he later served as Secretary General. “Football has the power to unite communities and change lives. That is why I have dedicated so much of my life to it,” he said.

Off the pitch, Mandishona brings strong academic and professional credentials. He holds a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Rural and Urban Planning from the University of Zimbabwe obtained in 1993, a Master of Science Degree in Strategic Management from Chinhoyi University of Technology earned in 2007, and a Certificate in Labour Relations. He is also a registered member of the Zimbabwe Institute of Regional and Urban Planning.

Professionally, he has served as Director of Housing and Social Services at Masvingo City Council since 2011, a role that has sharpened his skills in strategic planning, financial oversight, stakeholder coordination and policy implementation. In football administration, he served as Secretary General of Masvingo United FC from 2019 to 2023 and was recently appointed Board Member responsible for Marketing in the Eastern Region Soccer League from February 20, 2025 to date.