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The 2024 Defence Forces Day celebrations will be held at Rufaro Stadium in Mbare, marking a departure from the event’s traditional venue at the National Sports Stadium.
The location change comes as the National Sports Stadium, a 60,000-seater facility, has been out of use since September 2023, when it hosted President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s inauguration ceremony.
The iconic stadium is currently undergoing renovations to bring it up to the standards required by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to host international football matches.
However, the renovations have faced delays due to a lack of funding from the Treasury. In May 2024, the Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Kirsty Coventry, told parliament that funds had not been released to complete the upgrades.
During the post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere announced that this year’s Defence Forces Day commemoration will take place on August 13. He said:
<blockquote>
he Defence Forces Day will be celebrated on the 13th of August at Rufaro Stadium in Harare under the theme, “Guaranteeing A Conducive Environment For Attainment Of Vision 2030”.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

The Defence Forces Day celebrations in 2024 will be at Rufaro Stadium, not the National Sports Stadium. The National Sports Stadium is being renovated for international football matches. The renovations are delayed because of funding issues. The celebrations will be on August 13 with the theme "Guaranteeing A Conducive Environment For Attainment Of Vision 2030". The change of venue is because the National Sports Stadium is not ready.

Rufaro Stadium To Host Defence Forces Day Celebrations

CAPS United could have lost thousands of dollars through leakages after officials claimed that 12,000 fans paid to watch the Harare derby on Sunday when the 23,000-seater Rufaro stadium appeared to be almost full.
Makepekepe were the hosts and therefore entitled to the matchday revenue.
Thousands of football fans turned up to watch the high-profile encounter between Harare rivals CAPS United and Dynamos, with the game ending 1-1.
The cheapest entry charge was pegged at $5 for the Rest of Ground ticket, while the Upper Grandstand tickets were sold for $10. The VVIP ticket cost $20.
According to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200027197/rufaro-gate-takings-raise-eyebrows">NewsDay</a>, this was the biggest crowd to attend a football match at Rufaro since it was reopened this year, with some even estimating the spectators to have been around 20,000.
However, the official attendance figures show that only 12 446 people paid to watch the derby, with CAPS United grossing around US$ 62,500.
Makepekepe were reportedly left with around US$30,000 after paying service providers such as hiring the stadium from the Harare City Council, police, ambulance services, private security, match officials as well as the ZIFA and SRC levies.
After deducting other indirect costs which included camping and allowances for the players, CAPS United will likely net around US$25 000.
A football expert who spoke to NewsDay on Monday on condition of anonymity said the figures were not adding up. He said:
<blockquote>
If the official capacity is around 23,000 people, then it is easy to guess that over 20,000 attended. That stadium was almost full to capacity.
But when we hear that only 12,000 attended, then two issues immediately come up.
It is either the officials understated the figures or the ticketing system is porous. I want to believe it is the latter.
It’s high time that the PSL introduces the electronic ticketing system and pre-match ticket sales.
This is the only way to minimise leakages at the gate. Clubs are being prejudiced a lot of money through these leakages.
</blockquote>
The expert also noted that the old gate turnstiles used at Rufaro Stadium have proved to be slow in admitting fans resulting in some spectators getting into the stadium at halftime.
In the case of Sunday’s Harare derby, thousands of fans were still queuing outside the stadium when the match kicked off at 3 PM.
CAPS United chief executive officer Morton Dodzo expressed satisfaction with the turnout, saying the match itself was enjoyable. Said Dodzo:
<blockquote>
This was a good crowd and the good part is they watched a good match. This was a good advertisement for our football and hopefully, this match will inspire people to continue coming in their numbers.
This was probably the best atmosphere we have witnessed so far this season. Our team played well and so did Dynamos.
We are hoping for a good result against Bulawayo Chiefs so that our fans can come and watch us when we host Simba [Bhora].
</blockquote>
The match lived up to expectations as the two sides played entertaining football.
Defender Kelvin Moyo put Dynamos converted a penalty early in the second half before Ralph Kawondera bundled the ball over the line to give the Green Machine a share of the spoils.
The point moved CAPS United into sixth position with 17 points, but heaped more pressure on DeMbare coach Genesis Mangombe whose side sits on 12th position with 13 points.
The Glamour Boys are likely optimistic about defeating PSL debutants Arenel Movers in their upcoming match on Sunday, considering that their only two wins this season have been against newly promoted teams, Bikita Minerals and TelOne.
The 2014 champions will be hoping to get another third win when the PSL rules on their abandoned match against another promoted side, Chegutu Pirates.
The match was abandoned just after DeMbare had scored the only goal of the match in second-half stoppage time.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare Derby Generates Over US$60 000, CAPS United Left With Less Than US$30 000

Harare mayor Jacob Mafume said that the Harare City Council will install television screens at Rufaro Stadium that will enable football fans to watch the English Premier League’s title-deciding matches on Sunday, 19 May 2024.
The EPL matches will be beamed soon after the end of the CAPS United versus Dynamos Castle Premier Soccer League match at the same stadium.
EPL defending champions, Manchester City, with 88 points, host West Ham at Etihad Stadium while title rivals Arsenal, with 86 points, welcome Everton at Emirates Stadium.
The Harare derby kicks off at 3 PM with the EPL title deciders getting underway at 5 PM.
Mafume on Thursday told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/big-screens-for-rufaro/">The Herald</a> that they had decided to provide television screens, bar, and catering for those seeking to watch the English matches after the Harare derby. Said Mafume:
<blockquote>
We are fully preparing for the Harare derby and we also know that in the sporting calendar, this Sunday is going to be an important day in the English Premier League.
So, what we have done is that we have put TV screens inside Rufaro stadium by the kiosks where just soon after the derby is finished, TVs will be mounted and people can watch the decider of the EPL.
It means they don’t have to rush out of Rufaro or be caught in the traffic jam trying to catch up with what will be happening in the EPL.
They will be able to watch the proceedings of the Premier League soon after the final whistle here at Rufaro.
</blockquote>
Mafume also said part of the City of Harare’s long-term plans was to ensure that Rufaro Stadium becomes a seven-day facility and not a weekend facility. He said:
<blockquote>
[Rufaro] is going to have beer gardens, and it is going to have big screens for soccer both international and local.
It is going to be a go-to centre and one-stop shop it is going to be a sports village and a sports village must be able to deal with both local and international sport…
Beyond the derby, the long-term plan is to construct sports bars here at Rufaro, we are going to have big screens, it has got to be a seven-day facility and not a weekend facility.
We want to it be a place where it can be a family fun day, we are thinking of having entertainment and we are buying state of an art sound system for that purpose.
We are also going to ask entertainers to come in and perform and create a fun day, we are going to create what we want to call a Rufaro experience so that even if you are touring from the provinces and other parts of the country, you will be able to come and leave with some memorabilia and also with a huge experience at Rufaro, the photo experience and the kinds of things you will find at an international stadium.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

TV Screens To Be Installed At Rufaro Stadium For EPL Title-Deciding Matches - Harare Mayor

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) officially confirmed the use of Rufaro Stadium for this weekend’s matches, putting an end to the uncertainty that had gripped the Dynamos camp.
When the PSL released the MatchDay Five fixtures scheduled for this weekend, it omitted confirmation of the venue for the Dynamos versus Bulawayo Chiefs match. Rufaro Stadium was still subject to re-inspection.
According to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/dembare-win-rufaro-battle-yadah-to-use-heart-stadium/">The Herald</a>, Yadah, another Harare-based team, received temporary approval to use their Heart Stadium on Saturday against Simba Bhora.
The Heart Stadium, situated in the Prospect suburb, will then undergo another round of inspection by the First Instance Board.
The last-minute confirmation of Rufaro Stadium’s availability for this weekend’s fixtures appears to have unsettled the Dynamos team.
Before the late confirmation of Rufaro Stadium, DeMbare coach Genesis Mangombe expressed that the lingering uncertainties were far from ideal for his team’s preparations. He said:
<blockquote>
Some of these things are beyond our control and it’s very difficult when you want to play at home and you are preparing for a home match, it’s not ideal to be told you are no longer playing at Rufaro but somewhere else.
It’s not good, our fans love to see their team playing at home. So, it’s discouraging.
</blockquote>
Rufaro Stadium, which had been dormant for five years, reopened its doors during the Easter weekend. However, it only hosted four games before authorities highlighted the need for further maintenance to address the challenges encountered last week.
During Yadah’s match against Dynamos last Friday, spectators faced difficulties accessing the stadium entrance. Some fans were turned away, while others managed to enter either during or just before halftime. Additionally, certain toilets were in poor condition.
Workmen were diligently at work yesterday, focusing on repairing turnstiles, toilets, and other areas. Meanwhile, the Dynamos team trained on the main pitch.
PSL Fixtures:
Saturday: Arenel Movers v Bikita Minerals (Luveve), FC Platinum v CAPS Utd (Mandava), ZPC Kariba v Herentals (Nyamhunga), GreenFuel v Ngezi Platinum Stars (GreenFuel Arena), Yadah v Simba Bhora (Heart Stadium).
Sunday: Highlanders v Chegutu Pirates (Barbourfields), Manica Diamonds v Chicken Inn (Sakubva), Hwange v TelOne (Colliery), Dynamos v Bulawayo Chiefs (Rufaro)
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Rufaro Stadium Cleared To Host Dynamos Vs Bulawayo Chiefs, Yadah To Use Heart Stadium

The Premier Soccer League has temporarily suspended the use of Rufaro Stadium pending another inspection by the ZIFA First Instance Board. This board is responsible for venue inspection and certification in the country.
Rufaro Stadium, which had been dormant since 2019, was re-opened for the first time last Thursday. The occasion was marked by a match between CAPS United and Bikita Minerals.
Over the Easter weekend, Rufaro Stadium played host to three additional matches: Yadah vs. Dynamos, CAPS United vs. Arenel Movers, and Herentals vs. FC Platinum.
Kudzai Bare, the PSL spokesperson, told <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/rufaro-shown-the-red-card-once-again/">State media</a> that the homologation of Rufaro Stadium was temporary. The venue is scheduled for re-inspection before additional matches can be staged there. She said:
<blockquote>
The homologation was temporary and the stadium was set for re-inspection by the FIB.
</blockquote>
Reports indicate that urgent repairs are needed for the faulty turnstiles at Rufaro Stadium. These turnstiles caused significant delays, particularly on Good Friday, leading to winding queues even after the match had already begun. Consequently, the venue has been excluded from this weekend’s Week 5 program.
Dynamos, facing off against their bogey side, Bulawayo Chiefs, now find themselves searching for an alternative home ground. Meanwhile, Yadah remains hopeful that their Heart Stadium will receive approval today.
If the FIB gives its approval, the Glamour Boys could potentially utilize the Heart Stadium for their upcoming fixture.
Football analyst Solomon Manganyi has levied accusations of corruption against the PSL, specifically singling out PSL Chairman Farai Jere, who also happens to be associated with CAPS United, for criticism. Wrote Manganyi on X:
<blockquote>
Now I understand what the PSL Chairman [Farai Jere] meant by saying they fixed the fixtures in favour of certain teams. So CAPS United benefited from playing two games at home as well as revenue and it’s now Dynamos playing at home and suddenly Rufaro is not good enough.
We raised the issue of turnstiles after the match between Yadah and Dynamos but the PSL administration saw it fit for CAPS to host Arenel Movers [at Rufaro] whilst Herentals hosted FC Platinum and reference for shutting it is the Yadah versus Dynamos match.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

PSL Suspends Rufaro Stadium

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) First Instance Board (FIB), responsible for examining stadiums to ensure they meet minimum standards, has temporarily homologated Rufaro Stadium in Harare.
Homologation refers to the process of officially approving a sports venue, ensuring it meets specific standards set by governing bodies.
Following this latest development, the stadium will host an official football match for the first time since 2019.
CAPS United host newcomers Bikita Minerals in a Week 3 fixture of the 2024 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League at the venue this Thursday.
ZIFA FIB chairman Sharif Mussa and his team conducted the final inspection at the Mbare venue on Wednesday, 27 March.
Mussa told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/football-back-at-rufaro/">The Herald</a> that the owners of Rufaro Stadium (Harare City Council) must address certain issues; failure to do so may lead to the stadium being banned. He said:
<blockquote>
We went to Rufaro today (yesterday), and we did our inspection based on previous inspections after having left them with a snag list of things to sort out, we have now seen remarkable improvement, and they have done a splendid job in trying to work.
The mayor and the relevant people have done a great job in moving towards great achievement.
So, we have decided that we will temporarily homologate Rufaro immediately.
There’s a bit of things they have to do. We have given them another snag list which they will work on and we will be monitoring it regularly to see that they maintain the work and the effort, and they get better at it.
If we see complacency and they don’t work on anything then we will have to temporarily hold the homologation.
</blockquote>
Premier Soccer League chairman Farai Jere believes that the venue, which is located in a high-density suburb, can attract huge crowds. He said:
<blockquote>
It’s exciting times for the Premier Soccer League. We all know Rufaro is the ceremonial home of football and we have all been missing the facility.
We expect the attendance figures to boost because Rufaro has a pulling power thanks to its centrality.
It’s an interesting period because we also have the Easter bumper fixture which has some exciting matchups.
</blockquote>
The last Premier Soccer League match at Rufaro Stadium was the goalless draw between Harare City and Ngezi Platinum Stars on December 14, 2019.
Harare had only one stadium that was available for PSL matches during the 2023 season, that is, the National Sports Stadium.
During the 2023 season, when the National Sports Stadium was unexpectedly closed, Dynamos and CAPS United, both Harare-based teams, made the unprecedented move to shift their home base to Barbourfields. Meanwhile, other teams relocated to Kariba, Mhondoro, and Zvishavane.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Premier Soccer League Action Finally Returns To Rufaro Stadium

Premier Soccer League (PSL) chairman, Farai Jere, says Rufaro Stadium is almost ready to host top-flight matches following renovations carried out by the Harare City Council.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/psl-chairperson-gives-thumbs-up-to-world-class-eye-catching-rufaro-stadium/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Jere expressed satisfaction with the turf at Rufaro Stadium which he described as “world-class”. He said:
<blockquote>
We can see that there are world standards, and things that are happening there. The turf, you can see it is world-class. I can imagine if this grass is cut and is ready for the matches it will be eye-catching.
</blockquote>
However, Rufaro Stadium will only host topflight matches if it is approved by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA First Instance Board (FIB).
The stadium last hosted top-flight matches in 2019 due to years of neglect, a development that exacerbated the stadium crisis in the country.
The City of Harare embarked on renovations which have not satisfied the Confederations of African Football (CAF) as it remains banned from hosting international matches.
If all goes well, Harare will have three stadiums to host PSL matches during the 2024 season. Said Jere:
<blockquote>
We can see that there are world standards and things that are happening there. The turf, you can see is world-class. I can imagine if this grass is cut and is ready for the matches it will be eye-catching.
</blockquote>
Last year, the PSL was forced to suspend matches for more than a month after the turf at the National Sports Stadium, which was home to almost half the topflight teams, had alarmingly deteriorated.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

PSL Chairperson Approves Rufaro Stadium Renovations

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has once again condemned both the National Sports Stadium and Rufaro Stadium as unsuitable to host international football matches.
This was revealed in a letter written by CAF technical development director Raul Chipenda to ZIFA Normalisation Committee chairperson Lincoln Mutasa.
CAF inspected the two venues at the end of last year. The letter, seen by <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/caf-condemn-national-sports-stadium-rufaro-again">The Sunday Mail</a>, reads in part:
<blockquote>
With reference to the stadium general inspection conducted by CAF in Zimbabwe to assess the National Sports Stadium (Harare) and Rufaro Stadium (Harare), based on the inspection report, we regret to inform you that both stadiums do not meet the set CAF stadium minimum requirements to host CAF international matches…
The inspection report concluded that several areas in both the stadiums require a total renovation in accordance with the CAF requirements, overall indicating that the stadiums must be totally revamped and redesigned from the ground up to fit the modern football stadium requirements and standards.
Areas such as the field of play, stands and spectator facilities, competition areas, media and medical facilities are just some of the main highlighted issues.
Additionally, the functionality, design, comfort and quality of equipment in the stadiums are currently of great concern.
</blockquote>
CAF said the National Sports Stadium remains in a similar condition as found during its last inspection.
Chipenda also highlighted that the current standard of the refurbishment work on Rufaro was “not fully in line with the CAF stadium requirements”. He wrote:
<blockquote>
On this basis, several structural errors and deficiencies could be identified during the inspection visit, which could have been avoided if CAF was consulted from the initial stages of the project.
As it stands, it is important to underline that there is a high risk that at the end of the ongoing renovation works in Rufaro Stadium, the stadium might still fail to comply with the minimum requirements to host some of the CAF competitions.
We would like to highlight that the overall stadium situation in Zimbabwe remains critical, and in case the standards do not improve in the near future, the national teams and clubs will have to continue to play their CAF matches in an approved stadium outside of your territory.
CAF, therefore, encourages the initiation of a total renovation programme on both stadiums in line with the CAF standards, and the purchase of all required equipment.
</blockquote>
The FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers resume in June and the ban on the stadiums may force the Warriors to play their home games in a foreign country, again.
Premier Soccer League champions Ngezi Platinum Stars and Chibuku Super Cup winners Dynamos may also be forced to play their home matches in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup assignments, respectively, on foreign soil.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CAF Condemns Zimbabwean Stadiums, Again

The City of Harare is expecting to have Rufaro Stadium ready to host matches before the start of the 2024 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.
The stadium, located in Mbare, has not hosted top-flight games for more than three years and has been undergoing renovations for a year.
In 2023, the Harare City Council failed to meet numerous deadlines for the renovation’s completion.
Reports indicate that Dynamos will host CAPS United at Rufaro Stadium in the Mayor’s Challenge Cup on 10 February 2024.
Last week Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume met with the committee tasked with overseeing the Stadium renovations. A statement by the City of Harare after the meeting said:
<blockquote>
His Worship the Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume held a meeting with the committee tasked with renovations taking place at Rufaro Stadium.
It was a meeting to take stock of the current status of the stadium and what needs to be done before the start of the Castle Premier League season next month.
The mayor urged the engineers to make sure they speed up renovations so that the stadium will be ready to initially host the proposed Mayor’s Challenge Cup match between bitter city rivals Dynamos and CAPS United.
</blockquote>
The Stadium will be subject to the approval of the Zimbabwe Football Association’s (ZIFA) First Instance Board for it to host matches.
Zimbabwe has a shortage of venues for local premiership matches and during the 2023 season, games were suspended for a month due to a stadium crisis.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Rufaro Stadium Set To Host Mayor's Challenge Cup

The City of Harare has opened its newly refurbished parking bay at Rufaro Stadium in Mbare to the public.
Francis Mandaza, the public relations officer of City Parking, the local authority’s vehicle parking management subsidiary, told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/flash-floods-damage-1-600-houses">The Sunday Mail</a> that private vehicles will pay US$0.50 per hour. He said:
<blockquote>
It is now open to the public at US$0.50 per hour and US$1 per hour for bigger trucks.
The car park will be a relief to those who visit Mbare often because there is no parking around the market, and one would have to resort to other means as there would be vagrants harassing the motoring public.
</blockquote>
He said football fans attending matches at Rufaro Stadium will be asked to pay for using parking facilities at the stadium when the sports facility reopens. Said Mandaza:
<blockquote>
At one point, ZIFA (Zimbabwe Football Association) engaged City Parking with the intention to manage parking on match days.
In the past, a lot would happen to fans’ cars during match days; some ended up leaving their cars at home as a result.
</blockquote>
City Parking reportedly raked in over US$3 million from parking fees and penalties this year.
In June this year, City Parking caused an uproar after it launched a blitz in the Central Business District targeting vehicles parked in bus lanes and designated loading zones.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

City Parking Opens Rufaro Stadium To The Public

Kirsty Coventry, the Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, has appealed to the treasury for funding to develop sporting infrastructure in Zimbabwe. The country currently faces the issue of dilapidated sports facilities due to neglect from both local and central governments. This has resulted in Zimbabwean football teams having to host international games outside the country.
Coventry urged the treasury to allocate grants for the refurbishment of sports infrastructure during a report to members of parliament at a pre-budget seminar. <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/sports-minister-coventry-begs-treasury-for-infrastructure-development/">NewZimbawe.com</a> reported citing Coventry’s report:
<blockquote>
 It is now time the nation should embark on or seriously consider significant investment in Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture for sustainable national development, pride, peace and security.
The sectors will never be the same again once the sport, recreation, arts and culture are afforded the requisite resources which include, appropriate workspaces, finances (working capital, concessionary loans and grants), machinery, equipment, land and skills.
</blockquote>
Every year, the Minister of Finance, Mthuli, provides funding to the Sports Ministry for infrastructure development. However, this funding has been criticised as being insufficient.
The National Sports Stadium, owned and administered by the central government, has been flagged by FIFA, and Minister Coventry’s promises to refurbish it to meet international standards have not been successful.
The parliamentary portfolio committee on Sports, Arts, and Culture has recommended focusing on the National Sports Stadium and the nearby Magamba hockey field. Coventry has proposed a blueprint to improve the country’s infrastructure. She suggests that if resources allow, additional funding should be provided to these sectors, either in the form of concessional loans or grants. Furthermore, she believes that funding for capital expenditure and office equipment should be prioritised to ensure effective service delivery.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2021/10/18/caf-to-ban-nss-after-warriors-final-2022-wcq/">condemned and banned all stadiums in Zimbabwe</a> from hosting international matches. This decision was made because the stadiums did not meet CAF’s requirements. CAF stated that the stadiums need to have bucket seats made of a strong and fire-resistant material. The owners of the stadiums are also required to set up a Venue Operations Centre (VOC) that provides a clear view of the stadiums and has CCTV monitors. The VOC should have the ability to make emergency announcements through the public address system. CAF also stated that the stadiums should have modern electronic turnstiles and automated systems.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Minister Coventry Appeals To Treasury For Funding To Develop Sporting Infrastructure

Innocent Benza, the Member of Parliament for Mutasa Central, has raised concerns about the government’s timeline for installing bucket seats at the National Sports Stadium. The lack of bucket seats is preventing the stadium from being approved by the continental body CAF for international games. As a result, Zimbabwe is set to host its first international home game in Rwanda. 
The Warriors will kick off their FIFA World Cup qualifier group campaign with a match against Rwanda in Rwanda on November 13 before they host Nigeria in the same country a week later.
Benza expressed the desire of football fans for Zimbabwe to host matches at the National Sports Stadium and questioned why it would take until December for the installation of bucket seats to be completed. The stadium’s condition has also worsened due to its continuous use by Premier Soccer League teams, including Benza’s own club, Herentals Football Club. Benza said:
<blockquote>
Soccer is in a serious state of need. December is too far to have a whole government install bucket seats in the Nationals Sports Stadium.
This is a public outcry that our national team must play its games in Zimbabwe. We request that officials from the Sports Ministry put all your efforts so we correct the situation at the national sports stadium and have our team play there.
</blockquote>
The Harare City Council’s attempts to restore Rufaro Stadium have not been successful. The local government authority has continuously changed deadlines, and some people believe that the renovations done so far are only surface-level improvements.
Innocent Dambudzo Benza is a businessman, educator, and football player. He is a member and owner of the Herentals Football Club and also serves as the Chief Executive Officer for the Herentals Group of Colleges.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Innocent_Benza/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

MP Innocent Benza Concerned Over Govt Timeline For Installing Bucket Seats At National Sports Stadium

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Stadium Inspector Joshua Knipp was in Zimbabwe last week to assess progress made in renovating the National Sports Stadium and Rufaro Stadium in Harare.
In a statement on Monday, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) said during the inspections, Knipp was accompanied by members of the FIFA-appointed Normalisation Committee. It said:
<blockquote>
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Stadium Inspector Joshua Knipp was in the country last week Thursday where he inspected the National Sports Stadium and Rufaro Stadium in Harare.
Knipp who was accompanied by members of the FIFA-appointed Normalisation Committee (NC) Sikhumbuzo Ndebele, Rosemary Mugadza and the FIFA Forward Manager Kudzai Chitima inspected the sporting facilities Thursday and Friday.
A report is expected to be presented to the association in due course.
</blockquote>
The two stadiums were banned from hosting international matches after failing to meet CAF requirements.
Previously, CAF said bucket seats made of an unbreakable and non-flammable material should be installed at the National Sports Stadium.
The stadium owners are also required to install a functional Venue Operations Centre (VOC) with a good overview of the stadium equipped with CCTV monitors.
The VOC should have an override capability over the public address system in case of emergency announcements.
CAF said the stadium should be equipped with modern electronic turnstiles and automated systems.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CAF Inspects Rufaro Stadium, National Sports Stadium

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) prevented Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume from commissioning Rufaro Stadium this morning. Originally scheduled for Saturday, the event was subsequently rescheduled to Wednesday and then Thursday, only to be cancelled following orders from the police.
Journalists and council officials were instructed to leave the stadium, which is still undergoing renovations. Despite claiming that the stadium is 95% complete, Mayor Mafume received instructions from the Mbare Police not to proceed with the commissioning ceremony.
In response to media inquiries about the stadium’s status and the matter of maintaining law and order, the police released a statement redirecting all questions to the Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Province, Tafadzwa Muguti. The ZRP emphasizes that it follows the guidance of the Permanent Secretary, who holds responsibility for government and local authorities’ programs in the city. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
With regards to media queries on the status of Rufaro Stadium in Harare and the issue of maintenance of law and order, the ZRP reiterates that it stands guided by the Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Province as he is the one in charge of Government and local authorities programmes in the city.
</blockquote>
The incident occurs after President Emerson Mnangagwa told ZANU PF supporters at a campaign rally on Wednesday that the central government would renovate Rufaro Stadium, facilitating the return of the Dynamos football club to play their home games there.
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ZRP Blocks Harare Mayor From Commissioning Rufaro Stadium

Pictures of Rufaro Stadium have generated controversy on social media with critics suggesting that the Harare City Council (HCC) has made insufficient progress in renovating the facility. The local government authority initiated the renovation project approximately seven months ago but has encountered multiple delays, failing to meet several previously set deadlines. The stadium was <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2023/02/14/renovations-of-rufaro-stadium-back-on-track/">initially scheduled to reopen before the start of the season</a> in March but was delayed on several occasions. Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume disclosed that corruption within the council hindered progress. 
Rufaro Stadium was condemned multiple times due to lack of maintenance with local stadium inspectors, including members from PSL and ZIFA, making extensive recommendations for the stadium to meet CAF and FIFA standards. These include improving the playing surface, perimeter support structures, drainage systems, ablution facilities, dressing rooms, and facilities for the physically challenged. They also recommended installing bucket seats, direction signs, standard doping rooms, a medical facility, press rooms, television camera points, and modern electronic turnstiles.
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-261921 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="510" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 680px) 100vw, 680px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-2.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-2.jpg 680w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-2-300x225.jpg 300w" width="680"/>
In May, Mafume expressed satisfaction with the progress made on Rufaro Stadium, saying that they had conducted soil tests and installed new soil to improve the playing surface, which will have a pop-up irrigation system. The city fathers had also painted the seats and numbered them, allowing teams to sell season, half-season, and quarter-season tickets.
<img alt="" class="wp-image-261922 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="481" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 641px) 100vw, 641px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-1.png" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-1.png 360w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-1-300x225.png 300w" width="641"/>
He said the changing rooms had also been expanded, and each would have 15 to 18 showers, with individual lockers for players. Mafume added that a B-Arena will be constructed outside with the same turf as the main pitch, which will be used for practice sessions and will contain small-to-medium shops, creating a multi-purpose facility.
The VIP section now has samples of the bucket seats that were recommended.
<img alt="" class="wp-image-261920 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="421" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 561px) 100vw, 561px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-3.png" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-3.png 360w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-3-300x225.png 300w" width="561"/>
Harare City Council has come under fire for failing to meet the deadlines, particularly after rejecting to partner Sakunda Holdings owned by Kuda Tagwirei. The ruling ZANU PF commented on the latest pictures circulating on social media:
<blockquote>
Jacob Mafume chibaba. After 7 months, here is what he delivered at Rufaro stadium: Car park lines. Sample VIP bucket seats. CCC is against soccer development. They refused Cde Tagwirei’s offer for this rubbish. 
</blockquote>
The Harare City Council (HCC) faced criticism last year for terminating a lease agreement with Sakunda Holdings. It has come to light that Tagwirei had intended to enhance the stadium’s appearance as depicted in the design below.
<img alt="" class="wp-image-261919 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="448" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 797px) 100vw, 797px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-sakunda.jpeg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-sakunda.jpeg 1024w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-sakunda-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/rufaro-sakunda-768x432.jpeg 768w" width="797"/>
 
Sakunda Holdings accused the Council of displaying a toxic attitude and lacking the necessary political will to execute the project, which led to their withdrawal from the partnership. During that period, Sakunda pledged to donate all project designs and plans to the Council for the benefit of the public interest.
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

PICTURES: Renovated Rufaro Stadium

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has suspended all matches for three weeks with immediate effect.
In a statement released on Wednesday, 07 June, PSL communications and media liaison officer Kudzai Bare said league action will resume on 01 July 2023.
She said the suspension of topflight matches has been necessitated by the maintenance work on water reticulation being carried out at the National Sports Stadium. Said Bare:
<blockquote>
This serves to advise that the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League is taking a break with immediate effect and will resume on the 1st of July 2023.
This has been necessitated by the maintenance work on water reticulation being carried out at the National Sports Stadium and to allow the playing field to regenerate.
We also expect refurbishment works at Rufaro, Nyamhunga and Sakubva stadia to be completed before we resume Castle Lager PSL matches.
</blockquote>
The National Sports Stadium, which is managed by the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), currently provides home ground for eight teams, almost half the number of teams in the 18-team league.
The stadium is home to CAPS United, Dynamos, Yadah, Herentals, ZPC Kariba, Simba Bhora, Black Rhinos and Cranborne Bullets.
The owners of Rufaro Stadium, the Harare City Council, are currently renovating the facility which when completed, will ease pressure on the National Sports Stadium.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Premier Soccer League Takes Three-week Break

Renovations at <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Rufaro_Stadium/">Rufaro Stadium</a> have gained momentum and are expected to be completed by next month following delays caused by corruption. 
Harare Mayor <a href="http://www.pindula.co.zw/Jacob_Mafume">Jacob Mafume</a> and Premier Soccer League Chairman <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Farai_Jere/">Farai Jere</a> toured the facility to assess the progress and set new timelines.
The stadium was <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2023/02/14/renovations-of-rufaro-stadium-back-on-track/">initially scheduled to reopen before the start of the season</a> in March but was delayed until the end of April. However, Mafume disclosed that corruption within the council hindered progress. <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/rufaro-renovations-gather-momentum-corruption-had-stalled-progress/">The Herald</a> quotes the Mayor as saying:
<blockquote>
Old habits in procurement. People want to buy the most expensive things. Whenever a project like this is started they try to alert their relatives and their relatives start forming companies to make these things and you will be shocked by the prices. So we have cut that red tape. If you want irrigation equipment you know where to buy that, if you want cement you know there is Circle Cement and that cement and so forth.
It’s like there is a looting committee that was created at some place and that looting committee is very difficult to cut through because it’s agenda is to loot. So it is the behaviour of the people that has sort of delayed our finishing timelines. But we have pushed day and night and I am happy to see the progress and I am dead sure that by the end of this month that we will be sitting in this stadium cheering our teams to our hearts’ content.
</blockquote>
Rufaro Stadium has been condemned multiple times due to lack of maintenance, but there is renewed hope as the City of Harare has taken on the task of restoring it. The pitch has shown visible improvement, and the parking area, perimeter wall, and shopping complex are also being renovated.
The local stadium inspectors, including members from PSL and ZIFA, have made extensive recommendations for the stadium to meet CAF and FIFA standards. These include improving the playing surface, perimeter support structures, drainage systems, ablution facilities, dressing rooms, and facilities for the physically challenged. They also recommend installing bucket seats, direction signs, standard doping rooms, a medical facility, press rooms, television camera points, and modern electronic turnstiles.
Mafume expressed satisfaction with the progress made on Rufaro Stadium, saying that they have conducted soil tests and installed new soil to improve the playing surface, which will have a pop-up irrigation system. They have also painted the seats and numbered them, allowing teams to sell season, half-season, and quarter-season tickets.
The changing rooms have been expanded, and each will have 15 to 18 showers, with individual lockers for players. A B-Arena will be constructed outside with the same turf as the main pitch, which will be used for practice sessions and will contain small-to-medium shops, creating a multi-purpose facility. Samples of the bucket seats are expected to be delivered soon to begin the process of ordering them.
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Samples Of Bucket Seats Expected Soon As Renovations At Rufaro Stadium Gain Momentum

<a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Rufaro_Stadium">Rufaro Stadium</a> won’t host the Harare Derby, the match between Dynamos and CAPS United on Sunday, due to renovations not meeting deadlines.
Football fans have been eagerly waiting for the stadium’s return after lying unused for over three years, despite being the favourite and most convenient stadium among Harare fans.
Rufaro was condemned several times by inspectors due to lack of maintenance but there has been renewed hope after the City of Harare embarked on renovations.
Harare Mayor, Councillor Jacob Mafume initially promised football fans that the pitch would be ready by March just before the start of the season, before extending the target to the end of April in time for the Harare Derby, which kicks off this weekend. He told journalists:
<blockquote>
We are working around the clock to ensure that the ground will be ready to host matches this season… but what we are now working on is to ensure that the ground will be ready to host the Harare Derby between Dynamos and CAPS United.
We have already done the samples of the bucket seats and we have already started the procurement processes and by the time we open it for games at least, three stands will have the bucket seats.
The turf will be ready very soon, three-quarters of the pitch has been levelled and the irrigation equipment has already been bought and has been installed.
So, once we do the massive watering on the pitch, we are positive that the Harare Derby will be played in Rufaro.
</blockquote>
Mafume promised to change everything at Rufaro Stadium, including the VIP stands, and the media area, and install bucket seats gradually until the entire stadium was covered. He said the local government authority would construct a shower for every player in the changing rooms to avoid queues and make the changing rooms more spacious, and comfortable for both home and away teams.
Recent images showed that the changing rooms and many other areas were still being attended to. But there has been a noticeable improvement in the state of the pitch. Visitors are also quickly greeted by the progress made outside the main arena, where the renovations on the parking area, as well as the construction of a shopping complex and the perimeter wall, are prominent.
However, there is still no sight of bucket seats at the stadium. There is a lot of work that needs to be done in order for the ground to meet the CAF and FIFA-approved standards, though.
The local stadium inspectors made up of members from PSL and ZIFA, have recommended extensive changes for Rufaro Stadium to meet CAF and FIFA standards. In 2019, they identified areas that needed attention before the stadium could host league matches. These include:
<blockquote>
1). Leveling the playing surface, 
2). Installing new perimeter support structures and razor wire, 
3). Overhauling drainage and ablution facilities, 
4). Expanding and upgrading dressing rooms. 
5). Improvements for physically challenged individuals, 
6). Clearer stadium direction signs, 
7). Bucket seats for spectators, and 
8). Enhanced cleaning of the stadium and surroundings. 
</blockquote>
The CAF inspection committee made similar recommendations, including constructing standard doping rooms, a medical facility, press rooms, television camera points, and modern electronic turnstiles.
Harare City Council recently turned down an offer from Sakunda Holdings who had wanted to turn the stadium into a state-of-the-art facility on a US$5m budget.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Rufaro Stadium Not Ready For The Dynamos Vs CAPS United Match

Harare City Council (HCC) has shared the latest pictures of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Rufaro_Stadium">Rufaro Stadium</a> which is undergoing refurbishment.
Due to years of neglect, the stadium, which is part of Zimbabwe’s rich football history, had <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/dynamos-says-city-of-harare-is-being-run-by-school-dropouts-after-rufaro-stadium-deal-collapse/">fallen into disrepair</a>, Pindula News previously reported.
Football matches in the top division were last played there in 2019. The ZIFA First Instance Board red-flagged it in 2020 and declared it unfit to host premier football. We present the latest pictures of Rufaro Stadium below:
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Rufaro_Stadium">Rufaro Stadium</a> is located in the heart of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe" title="Zimbabwe">Zimbabwe</a>‘s capital city <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Harare" title="Harare">Harare</a> in the suburb of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mbare" title="Mbare">Mbare</a>. 
It is the country’s second biggest stadium and is generally regarded as <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe" title="Zimbabwe">Zimbabwe</a>‘s home of football due to it being used as a home ground by some of the country’s most successful teams such as <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Dynamos_Football_Club" title="Dynamos Football Club">Dynamos Football Club</a>.
The giant stadium is owned by the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Harare" title="Harare">Harare</a> City Council. The local authority is responsible for its maintenance, well-being and upkeep. Besides sporting activities, the local authority also hires the stadium for other activities such as musical concerts, weddings and parties. 
Harare City Council aims to finish the refurbishments before the Harare derby which pits Dynamos and Caps United on matchday 7.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Latest Pictures From Rufaro Stadium

After the announcement of the cooperation between the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Harare_City_Council">Harare City Council</a> and City Parking a few days ago, the renovations of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Rufaro_Stadium">Rufaro Stadium</a> are back on track with some work already in progress.
Due to years of neglect, the stadium, which is part of Zimbabwe’s rich football history, has fallen into disrepair.
Football matches in the top division were last played there in 2019. The ZIFA First Instance Board red-flagged it in 2020 and declared it unfit to host premier football.
City Parking Public Relations manager Francis Mandaza told The Herald on Monday that they were expecting to have the stadium back in good condition by mid-next month. Mandaza is quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
City Parking has started construction work at Rufaro Stadium on the agreed scope of work which includes perimeter wall, shopping complex, parking lot and B arena ground. 
Our contractors are already on the ground with their construction equipment ready to start work. We have already procured most of the needed building materials including 120 000 bricks, river sand, pit sand and cement among other materials. Our expectations are that by mid-March we should be nearing project completion.
</blockquote>
The stadium had become an eyesore and will require a lot of work to meet the required standards. 
The stadium’s outer wall was in terrible shape, and basic infrastructure maintenance has been an issue. The open space outside the ground was turned into a dumping site while part of the car park had been occupied by trucks and vendors. 
According to a statement released by the Harare City Council recently, as part of the project, City Parking, a major source of revenue for the council, will carry out works outside the main stadium. 
Harare City Council spokesperson, Innocent Ruwende, confirmed the city council has started work at the stadium.
Concerns are still lingering on the renovation of the structures inside the stadium which include the run-down changing rooms, the press tribune, the toilets, the bucket seats, turnstiles and the turf. 
The City Council was criticised last year after <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/sakunda-abandons-plans-to-modernise-rufaro-stadium-accuses-council-of-toxicity/">cancelling a lease agreement</a> with <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sakunda_Holdings">Sakunda Holdings. </a>
The energy giants had set aside investments in the region of US$5 million for the project but the deal collapsed amid accusations and counter-accusations from both parties.
<h2>More Pindula News</h2>

"Renovations Of Rufaro Stadium Back On Track"

Dynamos Football Club has castigated the City of Harare after energy company Sakunda Holdings walked away from a deal with the local authority to upgrade Rufaro Stadium.
DeMbare wanted to play home games in Mbare next year and the club had hoped that the agreement signed by Sakunda Holdings and the council earlier this year would give Rufaro stadium a much-needed facelift.
Addressing the media on Friday, Dynamos spokesperson Tinashe Farawo suggested that the local authority is being run by school dropouts who do not appreciate the value of football. Said Farawo:
<blockquote>
We condemn in strongest terms what is happening at the Harare City council.
I think football, at the end of the day, should be the winner. We are not happy with what happened and it must not be allowed to continue.
I think to us, as a club, we want to encourage the formal legislature to, at least revisit, the requirements for one to be elected into office.
Some of these people who are running our cities are just school dropouts who do not appreciate the value of football.
We are exploring other options but we have made it clear. We are appealing to the central government to help us in this regard so that people are called to order.
Why would people not want development? It is going to benefit everyone we should all be proud of business people who are willing to help.
</blockquote>
Earlier this month, Sakunda Holdings notified Harare mayor Jacob Mafume that it had formally withdrawn the deal to partner with Harare City Council to refurbish Rufaro Stadium.
The company said it was withdrawing from the partnership due to “untruthful and malicious allegations” emanating from the local authority. | <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/dynamos-blasts-harare-city-council-over-collapsed-rufaro-stadium-re-development-says-council-being-run-school-dropouts/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

Dynamos Says City Of Harare Is Being Run By School Dropouts After Rufaro Stadium Deal Collapse

Football stakeholders have criticised the opposition-dominated City of Harare for “dragging politics into sport” after Sakunda Holdings, a company owned by a ZANU PF benefactor Kuda Tagwirei, formally withdrew its proposal to upgrade Rufaro Stadium, the so-called ceremonial home of football.
Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) interim president Gift Banda, who is coincidentally a former deputy mayor of the City of Bulawayo, accused the Harare City Council of letting politics get in the way of football. Said, Banda:
<blockquote>
What Sakunda had done was the right way. There is nothing political in sport. Politics should not be dragged into sport and football in particular.
Sakunda would have helped us to get Rufaro to become a CAF and FIFA-accepted stadium. “In any case, how much revenue is Harare City making at the moment from that stadium vis-à-vis what they are spending on maintenance?
City of Harare was supposed to try and assist in coming up with a solid contract that was beneficial to everyone and not close out a corporate that is trying to assist.
</blockquote>
Rufaro has been condemned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the stadium last hosted Premiership matches in 2019.
Premier Soccer League (PSL) chairperson Farai Jere argued that the refurbishment of Rufaro Stadium would have benefited local football in the long run. He said:
<blockquote>
This was a very important investment in football and it was going to benefit generations to come, and this is something we need to look at from that perspective.
</blockquote>
Northern Region Soccer League (NRSL) Division One chairperson Martin Kweza also expressed disappointment over Sakunda’s withdrawal from the partnership with Harare City Council. Said Kweza:
<blockquote>
I am heartbroken, to say the least. I was already envisaging a new Rufaro in the mould of FNB Stadium (South Africa’s World Cup stadium) on completion.
I could see the appetite of football people to come back to the home of football, particularly when we hosted the Axis Super 8 cup final.
A refurbished Rufaro was going to bring a new dawn for Zimbabwean football, and now this?
I sincerely hope the two parties will find each other and resolve the issues currently obtaining for the sake of Rufaro Stadium, the rich history that it carries and soccer-loving Zimbabweans.
</blockquote>
Sakunda cited “toxicity” in Harare City Council’s attitude as the reason for walking away from the deal. | <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/pressure-mounts-on-harare-mayor-over-rufaro">The Sunday Mail</a>

Football Stakeholders Criticise Council Over Rufaro Stadium Deal Collapse

Harare City Council has made a U-turn on its decision to cut ties with <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sakunda_Holdings">Sakunda Holdings</a> on the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/harare-city-leases-rufaro-stadium-to-sakunda-holdings-for-refurbishment/">project to renovate Rufaro Stadium.</a>
On Tuesday, the energy giant announced that it was <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/sakunda-abandons-plans-to-modernise-rufaro-stadium-accuses-council-of-toxicity/">withdrawing its commitment to renovate the Mbare-based facility</a> citing a lack of commitment from the City Fathers. Said Sakunda in a letter to Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume:
<blockquote>
We are shocked and disturbed by untruthful and malicious allegations that Sakunda intends to purchase Rufaro Stadium, which is a public asset…
Consequently, we would like to hereby notify you of our immediate withdrawal from the partnership.
</blockquote>
The two parties had earlier this year agreed on a deal that would have seen Sakunda renovating Rufaro Stadium to world-class status under a long-term lease agreement on behalf of Dynamos Football Club.
In response to the withdrawal, Mafume appeared to be unmoved by Sakunda’s withdrawal from the deal, accusing the company owned by Kuda Tagwirei of seeking “a parasitic deal.”
However, Mafume told a press conference this Wednesday that the council was ready to engage with Sakunda Holdings to revive the deal. <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/theindependent/sport/article/200003680/harare-seeks-sakunda-talks-on-rufaro">The Independent</a> cites him as saying:
<blockquote>
We are still open to negotiate with them.
There is nothing to drag. They (Sakunda) were supposed to come to a presentation to present their feasibility studies in terms of the agreement and if we had dragged any feet, they would have sent a notice or even written to us or sought an appointment with the Mayor as the head of the institution. There is no record of such a letter or anything of that sort that has happened. What we have is that they are talking about rumours in the letter but I don’t know what that means. What we have insisted and reiterated is that we need to enter into mutually beneficial agreements as a city with our business people so that we don’t end up signing things we do not understand or hand over assets of the public. We have not dragged any feet nor said we do not want to partner them.
</blockquote>
In the proposal, Sakunda Holding expressed its vision to drive community development in Mbare by establishing a Fifa-accredited stadium for use by Dynamos and other local clubs.
The rehabilitation of Belgravia Sports Club and its facilities for use by Dynamos for training purposes was also part of the deal.
Rufaro Stadium last hosted league matches during the 2019 season before it was red-flagged by the Zifa First Instance Board in 2020.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Rufaro Stadium Project: Harare Mayor Says Council Is Open To Negotiate With Sakunda

Energy firm Sakunda Holdings has pulled out of the deal to partner with Harare City Council to refurbish Rufaro Stadium which is owned by the local authority.
In a letter dated 7 November 2022 and addressed to the City of Harare mayor, Jacob Mafume, Sakunda Holdings’ chief operating officer (COO), M Chitambo, said they were withdrawing from the partnership due to “untruthful and malicious allegations” emanating from the local authority. Wrote Chitambo:
<blockquote>
Following our numerous unsuccessful requests to present to your office our final feasibility study report and proposed designs for the refurbishment of Rufaro Stadium, we write to express our gravest misgivings on the unfortunate events and communications emanating from your office.
We are shocked and disturbed by untruthful and malicious allegations that Sakunda intends to purchase Rufaro Stadium, which is a public asset.
Nothing could be further from the truth, and we believe you know that. These unfounded allegations are grounded on malice and a coordinated attempt to curtail our efforts to contribute to the revival and modernization of public infrastructure.
We wish to place it on record again that Sakunda did not have any commercial interests in this project, suffice to say that our participation in the same was entirely philanthropic, for the public good.
Consequently, we would like to hereby notify you of our immediate withdrawal from the partnership.
</blockquote>
Chitambo said Sakunda Holdings entered into the partnership with Harare City Council as part of its social responsibility which also includes the sponsorship of Dynamos and Highlanders. He said:
<blockquote>
Pursuant to our corporate social responsibility thrust which includes the sponsorship of Dynamos and Highlanders Football Clubs, Sakunda approached the Harare City Council with a proposal to enter into a partnership that sought to refurbish Rufaro Stadium and its precincts.
The proposal culminated in the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), whose framework required Sakunda and the Harare City Council to come up with a project feasibility study, following which a detailed technical agreement for the project would be concluded between the parties.
In fulfillment of this mutually shared vision, we were optimistic that after the presentation of the feasibility report and proposed designs to Council, parties would proceed to conclude the technical agreement and proceed to project implementation.
</blockquote>
Chitambo claimed that a project management team comprising both Sakunda and City Council officials conducted research and benchmarked a stadium design for the refurbishment of Rufaro Stadium.
He said the team also visited stadiums in South Africa and engaged experts and suppliers who were involved in these projects, in order to enable them to understand what needed to be done.
The team also managed to carry out a full environmental and social impacts assessment and engaged all key and relevant stakeholders of the City of Harare for a full consultative meeting, according to Chitambo.
The Sakunda Holdings COO accused the Council of having a toxic attitude and a lack of political will to implement the project as the reasons for the firm’s withdrawal from the partnership.
Chitambo said all project designs and plans will be donated to Council in the public interest.
The letter was copied to the Permanent Secretary in the Local Government Ministry, Harare Town Clerk, City of Harare Chamber Secretary, City of Harare Chairman, and Dynamos Football Club.

Sakunda Abandons Plans To Modernise Rufaro Stadium, Accuses Council Of "Toxicity"

City of Harare’s mayor, Councillor Jacob Mafume, has expressed concern over the state of sporting facilities in the capital, with most of them in a sorry state.
Harare City Council owns several sporting facilities that include Rufaro Stadium, Gwanzura Stadium, the City Sports Centre, swimming pools, halls and other grounds which are all in need of urgent attention.
Addressing an Education, Health, Housing and Community Services and Licensing meeting, Mafume said the state of stadia and poor customer care impact negatively the local authority economy. He said:
<blockquote>
We need to be serious as council and do the basics. Let us give a service that we parrot about and not just watch things collapse in the manner it has happened.
We are a city that must lead but with poor customer care, we scare away those giving us business.
Surely, we can do better than this. For now, let us not worry about world-class city status but worry about fixing these fundamentals.
</blockquote>

Harare Mayor Raises Concern Over State Of Stadiums

One of Zimbabwe’s famous and icon football stadiums, Rufaro Stadium’s name is linked to an opaque beer called Rufaro which was in vogue more than 40 years ago.
The stadium is located in Mbare, an old suburb in Harare, a few kilometres south-west of the city centre.
According to Robson Sharuko, a veteran sports journalist, the origins of the Ceremonial Home of Football’s name, as Rufaro Stadium is often called, has its origins from an opaque beer called Rufaro which was brewed by the Harare City Council under their Rufaro Marketing company. Said Sharuko:
<blockquote>It used to be called Number One Ground and it was then called Rufaro [because] the City Council used to [have] an opaque beer [called] Rufaro, under Rufaro Marketing, and the city fathers felt there was a happiness ring to football too and settled for that name.</blockquote>
In 2014 Harare City Council turned down a US$10 million offer to acquire the naming rights for the stadium from Savana Tobacco.
Savanna intended to rename Rufaro Stadium to “Pacific Stadium” but the parties could not reach a deal.
Rufaro Stadium is home to Zimbabwe’s most successful club, Dynamos Football Club.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2020/05/08/dyk-how-rufaro-stadium-got-its-name/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Soccer24</a></h4>

How Rufaro Stadium Got Its Name

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Harare_City_Council" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Harare City Council</a> officials have disagreed on how to deal with vendors selling potatoes on the back of their trucks <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Rufaro_Stadium" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">at Rufaro Stadium</a> premises.
Finance and Development Committee chairperson councillor Luckson Mukunguma told a full council meeting last week that the vendors should be formalised and levied. He said:
<blockquote>Instead of confiscating their wares, let us formalise them and start charging them for operating at Rufaro premises.
These people are operating in the car park and l see no problem if council levies them because as it stands, the system of confiscating leaves room for our officials to engage in corruption.</blockquote>
However, Councillor Denford Ngadziore expressed reservations with such a move saying it would reduce the Sunshine City to a laughing stock and at the same time setting a bad precedence. Said Ngadziore:
<blockquote>For us to sit down and gazette that lorries be allowed to come and sell their potatoes at Rufaro Stadium premises, we would reduce ourselves to low levels as decision-makers of this honourable house.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/vendors-invade-rufaro-stadium-car-park/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

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