The local football community was stunned when Zimbabwe Saints and Golden Lions were both removed from the ZIFA Southern Region Division One League due to their failure to pay the required affiliation fees before the start of the 2025 season.

Following the failure to meet the required payment of $2,500 USD for affiliations by the specified due date—a crucial condition for registering players via FIFA’s platform—the two parties were terminated.

The decision was finalized during the region's Annual General Meeting (AGM), which took place in Umzingwane over the weekend.

Blessing Mbwanda, the spokesperson for ZIFA’s Southern Region, confirmed the decision, stating that the league will move forward with 18 teams as was agreed upon during the congress.

Mbwanda stated that since the teams did not manage to pay their affiliation fees promptly—this being essential for player enrollment via FIFA’s system—they missed the registration deadline and thus cannot participate in this season anymore.

This development has cleared the path for new participants. The Bulawayo Warriors and Imbizo FC have both been welcomed into the league following their compliance with all necessary entrance requirements, whereas Megawatt FC will be making its first appearance after obtaining Adachi's team.

The annual general meeting also resulted in substantial financial gains for the league. According to Khumbulani Mbano, who oversees marketing as a regional board member, Herentals College has contributed $10,000 per month towards individual player prizes, with bonuses going to leading goal scorers.

In a significant sponsorship coup, a spirits firm has committed $200,000 to support the league.

A portion of the funds will be allocated to pay referee fees, which should help alleviate the economic strain on the involved teams. Additionally, the league is scheduled for a rebranding initiative as part of this fresh collaboration.

The annual general meeting was attended by all 18 teams, which included Arenel Movers, Victoria Falls Herentals, Bosso 90, Mainline, Casymn, Talen Vision, Nkayi United, Byo City, Byo Chiefs, Hwange, Indlovu Iyanyathela, Hardrock, Jordan Sinnott FC, Zebras Revolution, along with the three newly joined clubs.

The fixtures for the upcoming season will be determined on April 8 at 1 pm at the ZIFA Southern Region offices.

Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).