Opinion by Eddie Paradza
As Zimbabwe prepares to host the Southern African Development Community (SADC) meeting, millions are being spent on refurbishing parliament buildings, mansions, and roads. Meanwhile, the nation’s most beloved sport, football, continues to suffer from chronic neglect, with national stadiums in disrepair and the national team forced to play their home matches in neighboring countries.
The lavish expenditures for the SADC meeting have sparked a debate about the government’s priorities. While the infrastructure improvements are aimed at showcasing the nation on an international stage, many Zimbabweans feel that the same level of investment should be directed towards the country’s sports facilities. Football, the number one sport in Zimbabwe, has been particularly overlooked, leading to frustration among fans and players.
The lack of functional stadiums is a glaring issue. The deteriorating condition of these facilities has rendered them unsuitable for hosting international matches, forcing the national team to seek venues across the border. This not only undermines the team’s home advantage but also disappoints local supporters who are unable to watch their heroes play on home soil.
Criticism has been directed towards Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry, a decorated Olympian, for her handling of the situation. While Coventry has been proactive in promoting various sports, the ongoing neglect of football suggests a potential disconnect between her policies and the needs of the football community. Many are questioning whether the government, under her leadership, truly cares about the sport that unites millions of Zimbabweans.
Adding to the nation’s sorrow, the football community is mourning the loss of Norman Maroto, a revered figure in Zimbabwean football, who passed away this morning. Maroto, celebrated for his contributions to the sport, leaves behind a legacy that underscores the importance of nurturing and investing in football talent and infrastructure.
As the government continues its preparations for the SADC meeting, the call for a reassessment of national priorities grows louder. The people of Zimbabwe are urging their leaders to balance international aspirations with the foundational needs of their beloved sports, ensuring that the nation’s football legacy is preserved and its future secured.
Eddie Paradza is a United Kingdom bases political analyst, he is a holder of a BA International Relations and an
MA in Diplomacy Law and Global Change
