KEY POINTS
- Rufaro stadium requires US$2 million for completion.
- New lease deal with Scottland FC supports stadium upgrades.
- Mayor Mafume emphasizes shared responsibility among PSL teams.
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume announced that Rufaro stadium needs an additional US$2 million to complete its renovations. Despite recent efforts, the stadium is still not ready to meet international standards. Mafume explained that nearly US$1 million has already been spent, but much more work remains. Key renovations include the installation of bucket seats, electronic turnstiles, and floodlights.
“The renovations have brought the stadium closer to completion, but we still need US$2 million to meet CAF standards,” Mafume said. He added that the funds are crucial to make the stadium a top-tier venue. The upgrades will help Rufaro host international matches and improve fan experience.
New lease deal with Scottland FC to support renovations
Last week, Harare City Council announced a new lease agreement with Scottland FC. The deal will see the Mabvuku-based team assist with the ongoing renovations at Rufaro stadium. According to Mafume, the lease deal is not primarily about money but about cooperation. He explained that Scottland FC will help address some of the stadium’s immediate needs, such as funding certain upgrades.
“We are looking at a new model for all teams using Rufaro stadium,” Mafume said. The mayor emphasized that the council is working with teams like Dynamos, CAPS United, and Herentals to support the stadium’s renovation efforts. Mafume noted that Scottland FC is the first team under this new agreement.
How the Scottland lease deal impacts the stadium’s future
Mafume clarified that the lease deal with Scottland FC does not give the team full control over the stadium. Rather, it’s a formal agreement that aims to benefit both sides. The agreement will allow the team to contribute to the maintenance and development of Rufaro stadium. Other teams using the venue will also be asked to help fund renovations and improvements.
“The goal is to ensure all teams contribute to maintaining and upgrading Rufaro stadium,” Mafume explained. This approach is a shift from the previous lease structure. The new system requires clubs to work together to improve the stadium for all.
