Kwekwe United Apologises for Missed Fixture as Financial Struggles Surface
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Kwekwe United Football Club has revealed the substantial financial demands of competing in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, estimating that US$40,000 is required monthly to keep the club running smoothly.
The disclosure comes as the club publicly apologised for failing to honour their fixture against Herentals FC on Tuesday, an incident triggered by a player strike over unpaid salaries and bonuses.
Speaking at a press conference held in Redcliff on Thursday, Club President and founder Phil Makekera expressed regret over the missed match and appealed for understanding from fans, sponsors, and league officials. “We apologise for what happened. We were supposed to be there and we failed. I understand the disappointment,” Makekera said.
He acknowledged that the club is grappling with the financial pressures of top-flight football.
Club Chairman Francis Tayagadza assured stakeholders that an agreement has been reached with the players, and similar disruptions are unlikely to occur again. “Going forward, we reassure the football family that such incidents won’t happen again,” Tayagadza pledged.
He disclosed that the players had not received their wages for one month or their promised winning bonuses, prompting the strike.
Addressing rumours circulating on social media, Makekera firmly denied claims that he had rejected sponsorship opportunities.
“There’s not a single person who has approached me to sponsor the team and I’ve refused,” he stated, adding that he has personally borne much of the club’s expenses.
Board member and former Zimbabwe national team coach Benedict Moyo confirmed efforts are underway to resolve the outstanding payments.
“We’re doing something as an executive for them to get their dues… but we’ve also managed to convince the youngsters to prepare, to be at peak performance,” Moyo explained.
Kwekwe United highlighted the need for approximately US$35,000 to US$40,000 monthly to cover salaries, logistics, and match-related expenses.
In light of these challenges, the club has called for increased community and corporate support to secure its future in the Premier Soccer League and restore trust among players and supporters.
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