Johnson Progress

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has expressed frustration over delays in renovating the City Sports Centre, a facility in dire need of rehabilitation.

ThIs comes after President Emmerson Mnangagwa gave a directive to the City Council to renovate the centre, But progress has been slow.

Mafume emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “What’s happening at the City Sports Centre? I was given a directive by the President when he visited the City Sports Centre that we should renovate the facility, and that is an urgent issue.”

He added, “I don’t want another event to take place there before the renovations occur,” highlighting concerns that hosting an event at the centre’s current state would be embarrassing for the city.

The City Sports Centre is one of many council facilities in disrepair, reflecting the broader infrastructure crisis in Harare.

President Mnangagwa’s directive has put pressure on Mafume and the council to expedite renovations.

In July, it was announced that Paul Tungwarara, a special advisor to President Mnangagwa, would oversee the renovation through his company, Prevail Group.

The project is expected to modernize the facility, aligning it with international standards.

Mafume described the partnership as crucial for developing modern facilities, saying, “These are the kind of partnerships that we require so that we develop modern facilities that are in keeping with modern-day standards and that will make our children grow and live in Harare.”

The renovation is part of broader efforts to upgrade sports infrastructure in Zimbabwe, including the National Sports Stadium, which is undergoing refurbishment ahead of the 2026 season.

The government aims to restore Zimbabwe’s ability to host international events.