Zimbabwean club Scottland FC has announced a five-year partnership with South African side Durban City worth US$1.5 million (R24 million).

The agreement will prioritise technical support, youth development, commercial growth, joint talent hubs in Zimbabwe, and annual youth tournaments for under-15, 17, and 19.

“I would like to announce a partnership between Durban City and Scottland FC, a landmark moment for Southern African football. This is more than a partnership; it is a regional football bridge between Zimbabwe and South Africa,” said Scottland FC director Tonderai Sakupwanya.

“This partnership sets a new benchmark for Southern Africa club collaboration. Football unites nations, and today, we are making it real,” Sakupwanya added.

“Our shared goal is to develop world-class players, coaches, and football institutions. We are building a pipeline from local talent to global opportunity.”

This will include direct pathways for Scotland FC players into the SA ecosystem, European exposure opportunities, and structured loan systems to maximise player growth, creating an international level of professionalism.

“We are also working together on youth development, establishing a joint talent hub in Zimbabwe, shared coaching methodology and curriculum, annual youth tournaments under 15, under 17, and under 19, coaching education, and technical oversight.”

Durban City CEO Younus Kadodia is excited about the prospects of their partnership, saying they share the same vision with the 2025 Zimbabwe Champions.

“This marks a very historic day for both Durban City Football Club and Scottland FC, as we are in Harare, Zimbabwe, to conclude a footballing collaboration with the reigning league champions of Zimbabwe, Scottland FC,” said Kadodia.

“As football clubs, we share the same vision for growth and success both on and off the field, and the alignment in this collaboration will speak to both clubs achieving this mandate.”