Manica Diamonds FC has appointed businessman and football development advocate Tinashe Leslie Chipunza as the club’s new board chairman with immediate effect.

The appointment comes amid broader restructuring efforts at the Mutare-based Premier Soccer League side aimed at strengthening governance, commercial operations and football administration.

Chipunza, a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Harare, joins a growing number of Adventists occupying influential positions in Zimbabwean football administration. His appointment follows the recent elevation of Zimbabwe Football Association president Nqobile Magwizi to the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations executive committee.

Chipunza is known for his involvement in grassroots football and youth development initiatives, having supported various community football structures over the years.

He is also the younger brother of businessman Obey Chimuka, founder of Fossil Contracting.

In a statement, Manica Diamonds FC welcomed Chipunza’s appointment and expressed confidence in his leadership.

“Manica Diamonds FC is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Tinashe Leslie Chipunza. His leadership, experience and commitment to football development will play an important role in strengthening the club’s vision and future growth. We congratulate and wish him success in his new role,” the club said.

Club Announces Restructuring

The club also announced changes to its board of directors and executive management team as part of efforts to modernise operations and improve institutional structures.

According to the club, the restructuring seeks to strengthen governance systems, improve financial accountability and position Manica Diamonds FC among the country’s professionally managed football institutions.

The new leadership structure is as follows:

Board and Governance

Club President — Evance Kamombo

Vice President (Commercial and Marketing) — Tapiwa Letmore Mbidzo

Board Members — C Kamombo, T Kamombo and C Gurura

Executive Management

Tinashe Leslie Chipunza — Chairman

M Chihowa — Vice Chairman

F Mukwinya — Treasurer

N Kadenge — Chief Executive Officer

The club said the changes are intended to support both sporting and commercial growth.

“This restructuring reflects the club’s proactive approach to meeting the evolving demands of modern football administration. By strengthening governance and commercial leadership, Manica Diamonds FC remains committed to excellence both on and off the pitch,” part of the statement read.

Manica Diamonds FC confirmed that the Premier Soccer League had been formally notified of the leadership changes.

Club officials say the team has shown signs of progress since the restructuring process began, recording two wins, two draws and two defeats in recent matches.

Club spokesperson Tapiwa Letmore Mbidzo said the focus remains on improving performances and moving away from the relegation zone.

“We are on the right track. Since the new leadership came in, we have won two matches, drawn two and lost two. We believe this is a fair start considering the rebuilding process taking place at the club,” said Mbidzo.

Supporters in Manicaland are hopeful that the leadership changes will help strengthen the club through improved investment, player welfare and youth development programmes.