Deadlines Confirmed for National Sports Stadium Revamp — Mohadi

Acting President Dr Kembo Mohadi says Government has approved firm timelines for the refurbishment of the National Sports Stadium, with the facility expected to be ready to host international matches by mid-2026.

His remarks come as Zimbabwe’s senior national football team, the Warriors, are competing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The team suffered a 2–1 defeat to Egypt on Monday, conceding a stoppage-time winner from Mohamed Salah, and now face Angola in a crucial group encounter.

Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, Dr Mohadi revealed that Treasury has already allocated funding for the project through the 2026 National Budget, ensuring the works proceed without financial disruptions.

He acknowledged growing frustration among local supporters forced to watch “home” matches played outside the country, assuring the nation that the stadium upgrade is now firmly on track.

“Government is equally passionate about the Warriors and follows their progress closely,” Dr Mohadi said. “We are committed to completing the National Sports Stadium upgrade within the set timeframes.”

Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube has ring-fenced resources for the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture to support the renovation, with Caf inspectors working alongside local authorities to guarantee compliance with international standards.

According to Dr Mohadi, the project will be guided by clear milestones and subjected to continuous monitoring to ensure completion by mid-next year, while regular public updates will be issued to promote transparency.

He admitted that hosting matches outside the country is expensive and unsustainable, stressing that restoring Zimbabwe’s capacity to stage international fixtures remains a priority.

Beyond the stadium works, Prof Ncube has also introduced tax incentives in the 2026 Budget to encourage private companies to invest in the construction and upgrading of sports infrastructure.

Dr Mohadi said Government is also focusing on expanding multi-purpose sports facilities nationwide to accommodate disciplines such as basketball, volleyball, tennis and netball.

He added that access to sports infrastructure can help steer young people away from drug and substance abuse, noting the need to rehabilitate facilities like the Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex.