Sinokubonga Nkala
Innocent Kurira
ZIMBABWE now boasts four new Fifa-recognised football agents after they successfully passed the November 2024 Fifa Football Agent examination. The quartet includes Tendai Mukungunurwa, Happymore Chayira, Mandla Dingani and Charles Chipepera.
These newly qualified agents will play a vital role in Zimbabwe’s football ecosystem, bridging the gap between players and clubs while ensuring professional representation in contract negotiations and career management.
Out of 12 candidates who sat for the examination, these four demonstrated exceptional knowledge and expertise, meeting Fifa’s stringent standards.
To complete the licensing process, they must pay the US$600 licence fee to Fifa.
Once licensed, they will join the ranks of seven existing licensed Fifa Football Agents in Zimbabwe, including Denford Mutashu, George Deda, and Garikayi Gilbert Sengwe, among others.
This brings the total number of licensed agents to 11.
The increase in licensed agents aims to reduce incidents of players falling prey to unlicensed agents, who demand large kickbacks and operate illegally. Having registered agents is crucial in the football industry as it provides a level of professionalism and accountability.
Registered agents are trained and certified to represent players and negotiate contracts on their behalf.
This ensures that players receive fair treatment and are not exploited by unscrupulous agents.
Registered agents also play a vital role in promoting transparency and integrity in the football industry. By being registered and licensed, agents are bound by a code of conduct that prohibits them from engaging in unethical practices such as match-fixing and bribery.
This helps to maintain the integrity of the game and protects the interests of players, clubs, and fans.
Furthermore, registered agents provide a level of protection for players who may be vulnerable to exploitation. Unregistered agents may promise players lucrative deals or false hopes of success, only to disappear with their money or leave them with a bad contract.
Registered agents, on the other hand, are accountable to the relevant authorities and are required to act in the best interests of their clients.
In addition, having registered agents can also help to promote the development of football in Zimbabwe.
By providing professional representation and guidance, registered agents can help players to navigate the complexities of the football industry and achieve their full potential.
This, in turn, can help raise the standard of football in Zimbabwe and promote the country’s reputation as a hub for football talent.
