ZRU Appoints Takunda Chifokoyo as General Manager Amid Reform Drive

Zimbabwe Rugby Union has appointed former Sables international Takunda Chifokoyo as general manager (image source)

The Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) has appointed former Sables international Takunda Chifokoyo as its new general manager, a move that signals a significant step in the union’s ongoing governance and administrative reform process. The appointment takes effect this month and was announced by the Interim Management Committee (IMC) appointed by the Sport and Recreation Commission (SRC) to stabilise and restructure the troubled organisation.

In a statement, the IMC said Chifokoyo’s appointment forms part of reforms presented to stakeholders in October, aimed at strengthening operational systems, restoring governance credibility and professionalising the administration of rugby in Zimbabwe. The union has faced prolonged governance challenges in recent years, prompting intervention by the SRC and the installation of interim leadership.

Chifokoyo brings strong rugby credentials to the role. A former Zimbabwe Sables international, he made his senior debut during the 2012 Rugby Africa Cup and earned nine caps for the national side. His playing career concluded in 2013 during the Rugby World Cup repechage match against Russia. He is widely respected within the rugby fraternity for his understanding of the game both on and off the field.

Since retiring from active play, Chifokoyo has transitioned into administration, serving as team manager of the Zimbabwe Sables since 2023. His tenure coincided with a resurgence in the national team’s fortunes, with the Sables winning back-to-back Rugby Africa Cup titles in 2024 and 2025. Those victories secured qualification for the Rugby World Cup and marked a turning point after years of instability within the sport.

The IMC cited Chifokoyo’s World Rugby certification as a manager, his experience coordinating technical, medical and logistical teams, and his background in the financial services sector as key strengths. The committee said these skills would be critical in improving reporting systems, governance frameworks and operational controls within the union.

Chifokoyo assumes the role at a critical moment for Zimbabwean rugby. While performances on the field have improved, ZRU continues to face funding constraints, institutional weaknesses and the task of rebuilding trust with players, sponsors and affiliates. His mandate includes consolidating recent sporting gains, strengthening internal systems and supporting the transition toward a stable, transparent and professionally run rugby body.