Zimbiri Makes History as First Bhutanese Woman Elected to SAFF Executive Committee
Zimbiri has made history as the first Bhutanese woman elected to the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Executive Committee, a landmark achievement announced during the SAFF Congress in Kathmandu on 24 May.
In a historic leap for Bhutan and women's representation in regional sports leadership, Zimbiri has been elected as the first female member of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Executive Committee. The milestone was confirmed during the SAFF Congress held on 24 May in Kathmandu, Nepal, where representatives from all member nations joined either in person or virtually.
Pride for Bhutan and the Region
The Bhutan Football Federation (BFF) celebrated the announcement, calling it a proud moment not just for the country but for the broader movement to enhance gender diversity in football leadership across South Asia. Zimbiri’s appointment was highlighted as a symbol of progress for SAFF, aligning with its continued efforts to create a more inclusive and representative governance structure.
Key Developments from the SAFF Congress
The 2024 SAFF Congress also brought several important decisions to the fore:
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Child Safeguarding Framework Introduced: A new safeguarding policy was officially adopted to ensure the protection of children involved in sports throughout the SAFF member countries.
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Financial Transparency: Delegates approved the 2024 financial statements and gave the green light for the 2025 budget.
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Upcoming Tournaments Announced:
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Sri Lanka will host the SAFF U-17 Championship this October.
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Nepal is set to stage the first-ever SAFF Women’s Club Championship in November.
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Bhutan will proudly welcome the SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship in September 2025.
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National Praise for a Pioneering Achievement
The Bhutan Olympic Committee added its voice to the national celebration with a heartfelt message on social media: “This historic achievement marks a significant milestone for Bhutan and women in sports leadership.”
Zimbiri’s appointment signals a turning point not just for Bhutanese football but for the broader vision of equitable representation in South Asian sport.
His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, President of Bhutan Olympic Committee, granted an audience to Ms. Zimbiri to mark her election as the first female Executive Committee Member of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF).
The occasion was attended by Dasho Ugen Tsechup, President of the Bhutan Football Federation, General Secretary Ugyen Wangchhuk, along with senior officials from both the BFF and the Bhutan Olympic Committee.
