The Zambezi Regional Football Association (ZRFA) held its first extra-ordinary meeting of 2026 on Saturday to finalise the regional budget and set a definitive timeline for the upcoming football season.
Central to the discussions was the kick-off of the regional second division league and the region’s preparations for the annual Namibian Newspaper Cup. ZRFA chairperson Ngwama Vuyalo confirmed that the meeting saw full representation from all association members. Vuyalo acknowledged that while the region faces significant hurdles, the association is prepared to address them directly to ensure a successful season. He confirmed that the second division league, which failed to commence last year due to infrastructure deficits and budget delays, is now officially scheduled to kick off on 31 January, with the season concluding on 15 June.
“In light of the delayed start to the season, the league has resolved to utilise two playing venues for this season, namely the UNAM Field and the Katima Mulilo Sports Complex,” he said.
Vuyalo explained that the two-venue strategy is a logistical necessity designed to ensure the league is completed within the required timeframe, minimise match postponements caused by first-division fixtures, and maintain a balanced schedule for all 12 participating clubs.
The chairperson also issued a public appeal for corporate sponsorship, emphasising that financial investment is critical to the long-term success of regional football.
“We need funds and committed sponsors. We have a lot of talented young players doing well in the Premier League who are originally from here, hence we want to see clubs from here doing well in the Premier League,” he noted.
In addition to financial and infrastructural concerns, Vuyalo highlighted a critical shortage of technical expertise within the region. He pointed out that Zambezi currently has only one CAF-accredited licensed coach, Linnox Kanyehu, alongside 36 NFA-accredited coaches. Vuyalo remarked that these figures are significantly lower than those in other regions, underscoring an urgent need for focused development interventions and the establishment of more football academies to nurture young talent.
–Nampa
