Academies Urged to Nurture Zimbabwe’s Future Football Stars

By Andile Vundla

Youth football clubs in the city have been encouraged to play a stronger role in developing talent and keeping young people away from the growing pandemic of drugs and substance abuse.

Speaking at the recent kit launch for Benianiah football club in Bulawayo, Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Omphile Marupi applauded football academies for helping nurture the next generation of players while also keeping young people away from drug and substance abuse which is affecting the future of the upcoming generation.

Guest of honour Brigadier General Million Ndlovu echoed the same sentiments, encouraging young players to remain disciplined and committed to improving their skills on the field.

He said Bulawayo has a long history of producing some of Zimbabwe’s finest footballers, many of whom have gone on to represent the national team.

“This city has produced some of the best players in Zimbabwe. You must believe in the vision of this academy and work hard so that one day we hear of you playing in top leagues around the world,” said Brigadier General Ndlovu.

Ndlovu urged the academy’s players to embrace the club’s vision and work hard to reach higher levels of the game, including opportunities in international leagues.

“There is nothing more rewarding than seeing players who started at grassroots level going on to shine internationally. I encourage you to stay committed and make the most of this opportunity,” he said.

He also commended the club’s leadership for investing in youth development and creating opportunities for young athletes.

Meanwhile, Benianiah football club President Reginald Vavashe laid down the club’s guiding principles, saying, “At FC Benaiah, we stand firmly for integrity, hard work, and professionalism. We are introducing a new dimension to football, one built on structure, discipline, innovation, and a long-term vision.”

Benianiah Academy based at Nketa Hall, will see the nurturing of future football stars from the under 13s, 15s, 17s upto the Division 3 level.