Installation of bucket seats at National Sports Stadium almost complete

The Government of Zimbabwe is in the final stages of installing bucket seats at the National Sports Stadium (NSS) to meet international standards and enable the facility to host international games.

Acting President Kembo Mohadi revealed this development during a media address on Friday at his Munhumutapa office. He stated, "We are having our home games played elsewhere. But what I can tell you is that we are now finalising the installation system of the bucket seats at the National Sports Stadium."

The NSS, which was closed in 2023 for renovations, failed to meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards due to a lack of essential amenities, including seating arrangements, electronic turnstiles, and upgraded changing and medical areas.

With the installation of bucket seats being one of CAF's key requirements, the government is making significant strides to meet these standards. Additionally, electronic turnstiles and enhancements to the changing and medical facilities are part of the ongoing upgrades.

Mohadi also highlighted the government's broader initiative to modernize and renovate other dilapidated sporting facilities across the country. He added, "We are also working on modernising other sporting facilities such as Magamba and others which are under the Ministry of Sport."

According to a report presented by the Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture in 2024, 90% of the country's sporting facilities are no longer fit for use and require urgent renovations. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to revitalizing Zimbabwe's sporting infrastructure.

The upgrades at NSS are expected to ensure that the stadium meets the necessary standards for hosting international matches, reducing the reliance on hosting games in foreign countries and promoting a more vibrant sporting environment within Zimbabwe.