HARARE — The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has announced the appointment of Sithethelelwe “Kwinji 15” Sibanda as the new head coach of the Zimbabwe Women’s Senior National Team, the Mighty Warriors.

Sibanda, who holds a CAF A coaching license, takes over from Shadreck Mlauzi, who was arrested last year after being accused of indecently assaulting a female staff member during the team’s camp in South Africa.

During his appearance in court last year, it was the State’s case that Mlauzi allegedly asked the staff member to come to his room for a massage and later grabbed her buttocks. The incidents were reported to the COSAFA safeguarding officer, leading to his arrest and subsequent court proceedings. The former Mighty Warriors coach has denied wrongdoing.

Mlauzi, who in an earlier stint guided the team to the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in 2016, had been re-appointed as the Mighty Warriors head coach in September 2023, ironically replacing Sibanda, who then went on to serve as his assistant.

Sibanda is returning to a familiar role, having previously served as head coach from 2017 to 2021. She is set to lead the team in the upcoming COSAFA Cup tournament, scheduled for October in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

ZIFA Normalisation Committee Chairman Lincoln Mutasa expressed confidence in Sibanda’s leadership, praising her experience and commitment to women’s football in Zimbabwe.

“We are thrilled to have Sithethelelwe Sibanda return to lead the Mighty Warriors,” Mutasa said. “She has a proven track record and deep understanding of the game, and we are confident that under her guidance, the team will continue to excel on the regional and international stage.”

Sibanda was part of the coaching staff under Mlauzi, when the Mighty Warriors made history by qualifying for their first-ever Olympic Games at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro event in Brazil.

“Her commitment to the development of women’s football in Zimbabwe is unparalleled, and we look forward to seeing the team thrive under her leadership,” Mutasa added.

“On behalf of the Zimbabwe Football Association, I congratulate and welcome Sithethelelwe on her appointment and wish her all the best in the upcoming COSAFA Cup.”

Sibanda takes over as the Mighty Warriors aim to regain dominance in regional competitions. Kukurigo