HCC Partners ZIFA, Pledges 40 Hectares for World-Class Stadium Project

By Loyd Matare

Zimbabwe’s football scene is on the brink of transformation as the City of Harare pledges a massive 40-hectare land donation to the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) for the construction of a world-class stadium.

This landmark partnership, announced by Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume, marks a significant shift in the city’s approach to sports development, positioning football as a beacon of hope for youth empowerment and economic growth.

For years, Zimbabwe’s football fraternity has struggled with poor infrastructure, with iconic venues like Rufaro Stadium falling into disrepair.

Previous attempts to renovate these facilities—such as the failed 2022 partnership with Sakunda Holdings—ended in frustration, leaving the nation’s football lovers wondering if this latest initiative would suffer the same fate.

However, Mayor Mafume assured that this collaboration with ZIFA is different, emphasizing a commitment to long-term partnerships and sustainable development.

“As you know, Harare City underpins the development of soccer, not only in the city but in the country.

“Many football legends have emerged from Harare, and we recognize our responsibility in ensuring that the sport thrives,” Mafume said during a press briefing at Town House.

The city has vowed not only to provide ZIFA with land for a new stadium at Highglen but also to work together in refurbishing Rufaro Stadium, Gwanzura Stadium, and Dzivarasekwa (DZ) Stadium.

The partnership is expected to breathe new life into these facilities, allowing Harare to reclaim its status as the heart of Zimbabwean football.

ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi welcomed the initiative, highlighting the importance of strong partnerships and modern infrastructure in revitalizing Zimbabwean football.

“We are finalizing our budget as ZIFA, and two of our key pillars focus on infrastructure development and strategic partnerships.

“If we secure land with a long-term lease, FIFA will embrace the project and help us secure funding. This collaboration with the City of Harare is a step in the right direction,” Magwizi stated.

ZIFA’s leadership aims to tap into FIFA’s infrastructure grants, private sector investments, and regional partnerships to ensure that the 40-hectare stadium project becomes a reality.

With six Premier Soccer League (PSL) teams now based in Harare and record attendance figures at local matches, the city has witnessed a football resurgence.

The once-dormant fan culture has been reignited, with stadiums attracting diverse crowds, from hardcore football enthusiasts to socialites eager to experience the electrifying match-day atmosphere.

Mayor Mafume acknowledged this revival, adding a touch of humor:

“The PSL has returned to Harare with a bang. We have record attendances. We now have slay kings and slay queens coming to watch soccer, dressing in all sorts of outfits. It’s now a feast for the eyes—both in terms of football and the people coming.”

Skepticism remains after the failed Sakunda-Rufaro deal, but Mafume insists that work has already begun.

He revealed that DZ Stadium’s renovation is underway, with perimeter fencing, changing room expansions, and pitch maintenance set to be completed swiftly.

“We will work like the Chinese—day and night—until these grounds are usable. Our partnership with ZIFA will ensure that football does not regress but instead grows into an economic powerhouse for the city and the country,” Mafume assured.

This initiative, if successfully implemented, could mark a new era for Zimbabwean football.

With a modern stadium, revitalized local grounds, and international partnerships, Harare has a chance to set the benchmark for sports infrastructure in the region.

Now, all eyes are on the City of Harare and ZIFA to deliver on their promises and turn this vision into reality.