Zimbabwe players received a handsome financial token of Ksh19.3 million from the country’s president Emmerson Mnangagwa as appreciation for qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).The Warriors sealed their qualification to the continental tourney after a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Harambee Stars in their second-last qualification match played on Friday 15 November at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa.Why CAF inspectors are unsatisfied with works at Nyayo and Kasarani StadiaThe result ensured that Zimbabwe joined Cameroon as Group J’s representatives in the tournament that will be held in Morocco. Harambee Stars and Namibia failed to make it out of the group stage.President Mnangagwa welcomed the team to State House, Harare on Tuesday 2 December where he awarded each of the 23 members of the playing unit USD 6,500 (approximately Ksh 838, 500). Members of the technical staff also received a similar amount of money.##NAJAVA_MECA_8547506##Veteran forward Khama Billiat who currently plies his trade with Zimbabwean side Yadah Stars FC expressed his joy with the president’s gesture to the team.“I think we are so happy. We’re so happy. We’re able to be here to be recognized and to have the President showing love and taking time for this. Michael Olunga’s heartfelt birthday message to long-term girlfriendWe truly appreciate and we feel so humble. We’re happy and the support is just amazing,” said Billiat as quoted by ZiFM Stereo.The former Kaizer Chiefs winger also disclosed that he will need time to plan on how to utilize the money owing to its magnitude.##NAJAVA_MECA_8547495##“I don’t know what I’m going to do,” he joked before continuing, “No of course it’s a lot of money. A lot of money needs you to have a lot of time to think,” he remarked.President Mnangagwa lauded the team for their qualification noting that it serves as an inspiration to the young people to work hard.Millions being dished out by FKF presidential candidates ahead of elections“Their display of teamwork, determination, and patriotism serves as an inspiration to all, particularly our young people, reminding us that with hard work and belief, anything is possible,” he stated.The 2025 AFCON will take place from Sunday 21 December 2025 to Sunday 18 January 2025 across six stadiums and cities in Morocco.
