The Zimbabwean government has set a goal to complete the rehabilitation of the National Sports Stadium by December 2024, ensuring that it meets the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) minimum standards. The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) revealed the progress of these renovations, which are seen as crucial for the future of Zimbabwean football.
During a recent update, SRC board chairman Gerald Mlotshwa and director-general Elta Nengomasha provided details on the ongoing work at the stadium. The renovations are progressing steadily, with some key components already in transit to Zimbabwe.
One of the most significant updates is the arrival of the first batch of 15,000 bucket seats purchased from China. These seats have reached Beira, Mozambique, and will be transported to Harare once all the necessary paperwork is completed. Mlotshwa expressed satisfaction with this development, noting that the shipment is a critical step towards meeting the December deadline.
“I am pleased to report that the first batch of bucket seats has now arrived in Beira, and we are working diligently to ensure they are shipped to Zimbabwe as soon as possible,” Mlotshwa announced during a press briefing. However, the exact timeline for the seats to reach Harare remains uncertain. Mlotshwa emphasized that the team is focused on determining precise timeframes to provide accurate information to the public.
The SRC has set its sights on completing all renovation work by December 2024. However, significant attention must be paid to the pitch, which requires substantial work to meet CAF’s standards. Nengomasha highlighted that, while the bucket seats are crucial, other essential upgrades are underway. She noted that significant progress has already been made in several areas, addressing the demands set forth by CAF.
Nengomasha explained that preparations are in full swing for receiving the bucket seats and other necessary equipment. One of the key steps is the installation of a new perimeter fence around the stadium, which is expected to be completed by the end of August. This new fence will enhance security and ensure the stadium is prepared for the arrival of additional equipment.
Water reticulation has also been a priority in the ongoing renovations. Nengomasha detailed that significant progress has been made, with the first half of the water reticulation system already completed. Trenches have been dug, and the necessary piping is now on site and ready for installation. The stadium is to be equipped with new turnstiles and CCTV equipment, which have already arrived. The next step is to install this equipment, which will further enhance security and streamline operations during events.
In addition to these upgrades, the SRC has acquired generators and new floodlights, which are essential for meeting CAF standards. Nengomasha pointed out that special lighting is required for the floodlights to comply with CAF regulations. A contractor has been appointed to handle the floodlight installation, and most of the preliminary work has already been completed.
Despite the ongoing progress, the renovations are not expected to be completed in time for the Zimbabwe national men’s football team, the Warriors, to host their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) matches at home. Due to the stadium’s current status, Zimbabwe will host its AFCON home matches in other countries. In September, the Warriors will face Cameroon in Uganda, followed by matches against Kenya and Namibia in October and November, respectively, all to be held at the same venue in Uganda.
