Is Mukuhlani the Right Choice for ACA Chairman to Transform African Cricket?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tavengwa Mukuhlani appointed ACA chairman.
- Focus on improved governance and transparency.
- Launch of Africa T20 competition on the agenda.
- Revival of the Afro-Asia Cup is planned.
- Participation in the 2027 Africa Games will enhance cricket's profile.
New Delhi, July 19 (NationPress) Tavengwa Mukuhlani, the chairman of Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC), has been officially appointed as the chairman of the Africa Cricket Association (ACA). This unanimous decision follows his interim leadership since November 2023.
This announcement was made during the ACA's annual general meeting held in Singapore on Friday, where he received full support from all 23 member associations.
Mukuhlani's confirmation occurs at a transformative moment for African cricket, which is currently embracing structural reforms. The ACA has recently approved a new memorandum of incorporation aimed at enhancing governance and transparency throughout the continent.
“Today, we stand at the dawn of a new era for African cricket—an era characterized by robust governance, expanded opportunities, and renewed aspirations,” Mukuhlani stated in a press release from Zimbabwe Cricket. “Together, we shall build on our progress, united by a common goal and a shared passion for cricket.”
Key initiatives on the ACA's agenda include the long-anticipated launch of a continent-wide Africa T20 competition, the revival of the Afro-Asia Cup, and the inclusion of cricket in the 2027 Africa Games in Egypt. Cricket made its debut at the Africa Games in 2023 in Ghana, where Zimbabwe emerged victorious in both the men's and women's categories. South Africa participated with experimental squads, while Zimbabwe showcased an emerging men's team.
Mukuhlani believes that involvement in multi-sport events is essential for promoting cricket and attracting increased financial and institutional support. “These engagements are vital not only for visibility but also for creating new opportunities for investment, policy backing, and continental cooperation,” he emphasized.
A seasoned leader, Mukuhlani has been at the helm of Zimbabwe Cricket since 2015, having been re-elected three times. Under his guidance, ZC has significantly reduced its debt, recovered from an ICC suspension due to government interference, and secured a position for the women’s team in the ICC’s Future Tours Programme.