This commitment was reaffirmed in the National Assembly yesterday by Deputy Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, Emily Jesaya, in response to enquiries regarding the stadium's current condition.
"It is the Government's wish for our national teams to play at the National Sports Stadium. We are doing all we can to expedite the renovation and modernisation of the stadium to meet international standards," Deputy Minister Jesaya stated.
Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, highlighted the adverse impact of sanctions on the renovation efforts.
He noted that the Government is relying solely on domestic resources for the stadium's refurbishment due to restrictions on external borrowing.
"The illegal sanctions have hampered our ability to secure external funding for the stadium's renovation. As a result, we are utilising our own resources to ensure the project progresses," Minister Ziyambi explained.
The National Sports Stadium, with a sitting capacity of 60 000, has faced challenges in meeting the Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards, leading to the suspension of international matches at the venue.
In June 2023, the Government partnered with an internationally acclaimed company, known for developing stadiums for the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, to spearhead the renovation project.
A feasibility study was initiated to assess the necessary upgrades.
By August 2024, the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) reported significant progress, with key components for the renovation already in transit to Zimbabwe.
SRC board chairman, Gerald Mlotshwa and director-general, Elta Nengomasha provided updates on the ongoing work, indicating that the renovations were on track.
Despite these advancements, the Government continues to face financial constraints due to sanctions, affecting the pace of the renovations.
Minister Ziyambi emphasised the need for self-reliance in overcoming these challenges.
"We are committed to completing the stadium's refurbishment using our own resources, ensuring that our national teams can once again play on home soil," he affirmed.
The completion of the National Sports Stadium's renovations is anticipated to boost Zimbabwe's capacity to host international sporting events, fostering national pride and contributing to the development of sports in the country.
