Rufaro stadium to be renovated again?

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has announced that the City of Harare will soon resume renovation works at Rufaro Stadium to ensure the facility meets international standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Mafume said the council had temporarily allowed Rufaro Stadium to host local Premier Soccer League matches because of a critical shortage of suitable stadiums in the country. However, he stressed that full-scale upgrades would shortly continue to bring the historic venue up to international requirements.

"We are going to purchase the bucket seats. We are going to purchase the digital screens and many other paraphernalia that make it an international stadium," Mafume said.

"And after that, we hope that when our teams begin the Champions League, we will be able to persuade CAF to allow us to host the matches at Rufaro. So, we are going to work on that."

The mayor said the planned improvements would strengthen Harare's ability to host continental competitions and reduce reliance on foreign venues for international matches.

Mafume also revealed that the City of Harare intends to place renewed emphasis on football and other sporting activities, noting their importance in tackling drug and substance abuse among young people.

He said sport plays a critical role in youth development and rehabilitation, providing positive alternatives that keep young people engaged and away from harmful behaviours.