As the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) elections approach on January 25, one of the notable candidates for Vice President is Patience Mutumwa, a seasoned sports administrator and advocate for women’s football development
GWERU – Midlands State University (MSU) Sports Administrator Patience Mutumwa has declared her candidacy for the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Vice President position ahead of the January 25 elections, bringing a blend of experience, passion, and a commitment to advancing football governance in Zimbabwe.
Mutumwa, who holds dual Master’s degrees in Sports Management and Human Resource Management, has been at the forefront of football administration for over a decade. She has served as a Councilor in the Zimbabwe Women Soccer League since 2017, championing the growth of women’s football in the country.
Her deep-rooted love for soccer began during her childhood, influenced by her father, Manuel Muhwandagara Mutumwa, a celebrated footballer who played for Selukwe Stars, Bata Power, and Railways. Inspired by his legacy, Mutumwa pursued sports administration as a career, taking her early passion for playing football into professional leadership.
At MSU Football Club, she has held several key positions, including Marketing Board Member, Team Manager, and Secretary General. She has led MSU FC and MSU Queens to notable successes in both the Premiership and CRSL Division 1 leagues, establishing herself as a dynamic leader in football management.
In addition to her leadership roles, Mutumwa has demonstrated significant expertise in resource mobilization, a critical skill for Zimbabwean football’s growth. Her instrumental role in securing a landmark sponsorship deal for the Zimbabwe Women’s Soccer League highlights her ability to attract financial support.
In August, the Zimbabwe Women’s Soccer League signed a US$320,000 sponsorship deal through the Heart Group of companies. Mutumwa’s involvement in this successful deal showcases her ability to drive growth and sustainability in the sport.
Mutumwa’s achievements also include being one of only two female administrators selected to represent Zimbabwe at the inaugural COSAFA Women Leadership Course in 2021. She was also appointed Secretary General of the Zimbabwe Women Soccer League Interim Board in 2024, a role she continues to hold.
Her qualifications are bolstered by certifications in sports administration, management, and science from institutions such as Kent University, in collaboration with the Sports Leaders Institute of Zimbabwe (SLIZ), and the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC).
With a career that seamlessly blends academic prowess, professional expertise, and a lifelong passion for football, Patience Mutumwa’s candidacy is set to bring a fresh perspective to Zimbabwean football leadership.