Rufaro Stadium upgrade set for August completion

Harare City Council says it is targeting August to complete the installation of bucket seats at Rufaro Stadium as part of ongoing efforts to upgrade the historic sporting venue.

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume said bucket seats have so far been installed in the VIP and VVIP sections, with work now expected to extend to the rest of the stadium.

"We are expecting that we will soon begin installing bucket seats in the rest of the stadium," he said. "We want to say that by August we will have installed all the bucket seats required."

He said council remains committed to improving sporting infrastructure and ensuring fans have better match-day experiences.

"We are aware that we should assist and create sporting facilities that will allow people to have a full life and enjoy their weekends," he said. "So we will use council funds to ensure that the stadium is brought into proper condition."

The upgrade comes after Rufaro Stadium was reopened for local football in 2024 following a five-year rehabilitation programme.

Despite the reopening, the venue still falls short of international standards required for FIFA-sanctioned matches.

Outstanding works include installation of electronic screens, improved ablution facilities, a proper players' tunnel, a modern media centre, upgraded floodlighting for night matches, and a fully equipped venue operations centre.

Council says the phased refurbishment is aimed at gradually restoring the stadium to full operational capacity while ensuring compliance with modern football hosting requirements.