Johnson Progress

The Harare City Council Traffic Department has announced the closure of Bulawayo Road (incoming into the City Centre) on Monday, 28 September 2026, ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier between Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo at the National Sports Stadium.

The road will be closed from 16:00 to 21:00, according to the traffic department, as authorities brace for a massive influx of football fans.

Approximately 30,000 spectators are expected at the venue for the 18:00 kick-off.

In a statement, the Harare City Council Traffic Department confirmed the closure and advised motorists to plan alternative routes.

“Bulawayo Road (incoming into the City Centre) will be closed on Monday 28 September from 16:00 to 21:00 due to the Warriors vs DRC 2027 AFCON qualifier at the National Sports Stadium,” the department said.

The council further directed motorists to use Solomon Mujuru Drive (Kirkman) as a diversion.

It also warned that a police checkpoint will be mounted at the intersection of Bulawayo Road and Harare Drive, where only officials and ticket holders will be permitted to proceed towards the stadium.

“Use Solomon Mujuru Drive (Kirkman). Police checkpoint at Bulawayo Rd & Harare Drive only officials & ticket holders allowed towards stadium,” the statement read.

Authorities noted that outgoing traffic from the City Centre will flow as normal, meaning motorists leaving the central business district will not be affected by the diversion.

The match is a crucial fixture in Zimbabwe’s campaign to qualify for the 2027 AFCON tournament, and a large turnout is anticipated as fans rally behind the Warriors.

The traffic department urged motorists to cooperate with law enforcement officers and to allow extra travel time.

“Motorists are advised to use alternative routes and to comply with instructions from traffic officers on the ground,” the department added.

The closure is expected to cause significant congestion on alternative routes, particularly Solomon Mujuru Drive, during the late afternoon and early evening peak hours.

Commuters heading into the city centre are advised to depart earlier than usual or consider using public transport.

Police have also indicated that security will be tightened around the stadium precinct, with roadblocks and checkpoints to ensure safety and crowd control.

Fans without tickets have been warned not to attempt to access the stadium area, as they will be turned away at the checkpoint.

The Warriors vs DR Congo clash kicks off at 18:00, with gates expected to open earlier to allow for smooth entry and security screening.