HARARE — Zimbabwe has emerged as the highest-earning Southern African nation at the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), receiving a total of US$1.15 million from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) allocations and donations, despite failing to advance beyond the group stage.
According to the latest figures released by CAF, the regional earnings from the tournament were as follows:
Zimbabwe 🇿🇼 – US$1.15 million
Mozambique 🇲🇿 – US$800,000
South Africa 🇿🇦 – US$800,000
Angola 🇦🇴 – US$500,000
Comoros 🇰🇲 – US$500,000
Botswana 🇧🇼 – US$500,000
Zambia 🇿🇲 – US$500,000
Zimbabwe’s top position in the Southern African earnings table is attributed to a combination of factors. Analysts suggest that the allocation formula considers not only on-field performance but also historical participation, commercial contributions, and CAF’s solidarity grants aimed at supporting football development across member associations.
Sports economist Tafadzwa Moyo noted, “While Zimbabwe exited at the group stage, the country benefits from long-standing CAF partnerships and its strategic engagement in continental football programmes. This demonstrates that earnings are not purely performance-based but also linked to administrative and developmental contributions.”
Zimbabwe’s payout surpasses regional football heavyweights such as South Africa, which earned US$800,000, despite reaching later stages in previous tournaments. CAF’s approach highlights a deliberate effort to ensure smaller or less successful nations still receive meaningful financial support, boosting domestic leagues, grassroots development, and national team preparations.
The funds will provide a significant injection into Zimbabwean football, enabling the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) to invest in youth development, infrastructure, and player welfare ahead of future continental competitions.
