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Govt hails Chahwanda Stadium progress
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The Zimbabwean government has highlighted the pivotal role of private players in developing the country's sporting infrastructure, with Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture Emily Jesaya praising ongoing efforts during a tour of the under-construction Chahwanda Stadium in Kwekwe.
The facility, set to accommodate 10,000 spectators, is making significant progress, with lawn and drainage systems already installed and changing rooms and terracing under construction. Additionally, a secondary arena, the B-Arena, is being developed concurrently.
The stadium is a collaborative initiative between Prophet Walter Magaya and Kwekwe businessman Shepherd Chahwanda. Jesaya lauded the duo for their commitment to advancing sports infrastructure in Zimbabwe.
"I'm very happy with the amazing work being done by the private sector to improve sports facilities in the country," Jesaya said. "I never expected to see something of such high standards. This stadium has the potential to host international games and provide a world-class venue for our athletes."
Jesaya emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships, reiterating President Emmerson Mnangagwa's call for the private sector to complement government efforts. "The fact that they are willing to work with us is a testament to the country being open and conducive to business," she added.
Prophet Walter Magaya, a well-known figure in Zimbabwean football, has already constructed the 5,000-seater Heart Stadium in Waterfalls, which was used by Yadah Stars during the 2024 Premiership season. Magaya reiterated his dedication to football development, stating that his passion for the game transcends personal ambitions, including his pending nomination for the ZIFA presidential elections in January.
"We are humbled to receive high-ranking government officials at the construction site of Chahwanda Stadium," Magaya said. "Our goal is to contribute positively to football development in the country. Even if I don't win the ZIFA presidency, my work in advancing the game will continue."
The government hopes that initiatives like Chahwanda Stadium will inspire more private players and corporations to invest in sports infrastructure, crucial for nurturing talent and hosting international competitions.
"This collaboration between government and private players is a step in the right direction," Jesaya noted. "I am confident that more individuals and companies will follow suit to help produce top athletes and put Zimbabwe on the map in the sporting world."
As Chahwanda Stadium nears completion, it symbolizes the potential of partnerships in transforming Zimbabwe's sports landscape and fostering a culture of excellence.
The facility, set to accommodate 10,000 spectators, is making significant progress, with lawn and drainage systems already installed and changing rooms and terracing under construction. Additionally, a secondary arena, the B-Arena, is being developed concurrently.
The stadium is a collaborative initiative between Prophet Walter Magaya and Kwekwe businessman Shepherd Chahwanda. Jesaya lauded the duo for their commitment to advancing sports infrastructure in Zimbabwe.
"I'm very happy with the amazing work being done by the private sector to improve sports facilities in the country," Jesaya said. "I never expected to see something of such high standards. This stadium has the potential to host international games and provide a world-class venue for our athletes."
Jesaya emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships, reiterating President Emmerson Mnangagwa's call for the private sector to complement government efforts. "The fact that they are willing to work with us is a testament to the country being open and conducive to business," she added.
Prophet Walter Magaya, a well-known figure in Zimbabwean football, has already constructed the 5,000-seater Heart Stadium in Waterfalls, which was used by Yadah Stars during the 2024 Premiership season. Magaya reiterated his dedication to football development, stating that his passion for the game transcends personal ambitions, including his pending nomination for the ZIFA presidential elections in January.
"We are humbled to receive high-ranking government officials at the construction site of Chahwanda Stadium," Magaya said. "Our goal is to contribute positively to football development in the country. Even if I don't win the ZIFA presidency, my work in advancing the game will continue."
The government hopes that initiatives like Chahwanda Stadium will inspire more private players and corporations to invest in sports infrastructure, crucial for nurturing talent and hosting international competitions.
"This collaboration between government and private players is a step in the right direction," Jesaya noted. "I am confident that more individuals and companies will follow suit to help produce top athletes and put Zimbabwe on the map in the sporting world."
As Chahwanda Stadium nears completion, it symbolizes the potential of partnerships in transforming Zimbabwe's sports landscape and fostering a culture of excellence.
Source - The Herald
