The government solved problems that slowed work at the National Sports Stadium. Money issues caused delays, but things improved thanks to help from the Treasury and Finance. Bucket seats arrived through partnerships with Sakunda Holdings. This biggest sports arena last held international games back in 2021.
Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry checked progress yesterday with her deputy Emily Jesaya and Secretary Nicholas Moyo. They saw bucket seats already installed in five sections, plus the special VIP area. Workers started fixing the field, and one entrance gate features new electronic ticket scanners. Everyone hopes international matches return before December.
Renovations cost 884 million ZiG from government funds. Workers discovered extra repairs needed after starting the project. Finding these issues slowed everything down but helped teams understand exactly what needed fixing. The stadium turns 38 this year, and many systems broke down completely over time.
Water pipes suffered more damage than anyone expected. Crews removed all the old pipes completely. The bottom part of the playing field remains usable, but the top layer needs replacement. CAF and FIFA provide advice through video meetings about necessary improvements. Once everything meets standards, CAF inspectors must approve the facility.
Many tasks remain, including finishing the bucket seat installation throughout the stadium. LED lights will replace old bulbs to save energy. Backup generators must be installed before reopening. Bathrooms need to be converted to modern flush systems. Nicholas Mutengu from the Local Government described these requirements during the tour.
Financial releases came later than planned, which created challenges. Workers hope to finish the turnstile systems within several weeks. The Ministry plans a news conference soon announcing completion dates. Coventry thanked FIFA and CAF for their guidance throughout the renovation process. A Chinese company built this facility between October 1984 and April 1987.
Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry checked progress yesterday with her deputy Emily Jesaya and Secretary Nicholas Moyo. They saw bucket seats already installed in five sections, plus the special VIP area. Workers started fixing the field, and one entrance gate features new electronic ticket scanners. Everyone hopes international matches return before December.
Renovations cost 884 million ZiG from government funds. Workers discovered extra repairs needed after starting the project. Finding these issues slowed everything down but helped teams understand exactly what needed fixing. The stadium turns 38 this year, and many systems broke down completely over time.
Water pipes suffered more damage than anyone expected. Crews removed all the old pipes completely. The bottom part of the playing field remains usable, but the top layer needs replacement. CAF and FIFA provide advice through video meetings about necessary improvements. Once everything meets standards, CAF inspectors must approve the facility.
Many tasks remain, including finishing the bucket seat installation throughout the stadium. LED lights will replace old bulbs to save energy. Backup generators must be installed before reopening. Bathrooms need to be converted to modern flush systems. Nicholas Mutengu from the Local Government described these requirements during the tour.
Financial releases came later than planned, which created challenges. Workers hope to finish the turnstile systems within several weeks. The Ministry plans a news conference soon announcing completion dates. Coventry thanked FIFA and CAF for their guidance throughout the renovation process. A Chinese company built this facility between October 1984 and April 1987.
