Story by Tichaona Kurewa
CONSTRUCTION of the Victoria Falls Multipurpose Cricket Ground is progressing steadily, with optimism growing among the local community that the facility will unlock significant economic and tourism opportunities once completed.
The development is in line with President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s call for government to facilitate the growth of sport and tourism in the country.
The stadium is expected to be ready to host matches by the end of the year, with one of its first major assignments being the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which Zimbabwe will co-host alongside South Africa and Namibia.
Significant progress has been recorded on the civil works, with the main pitch already completed and critical infrastructure taking shape.
As the countdown to the completion of the stadium continues, the Victoria Falls community is optimistic that the facility will unlock a wide range of opportunities for the city and its residents.
“The completion of the Falls Multipurpose Cricket Ground will put Victoria Falls on the map as a major sporting destination. International matches and tournaments will market our city to a global audience and boost its profile beyond tourism,” a resident said.
Another added that the project will create much-needed employment opportunities for locals across various sectors.
“This facility will create employment opportunities for local people, from stadium operations and maintenance to hospitality and transport services. More events mean more income for families in our community.”
Others believe the stadium will boost sports tourism and broaden the economic base of the resort town.
“The cricket ground will attract sports tourists who may not have visited Victoria Falls otherwise. Visitors coming for matches will also explore the Falls, stay in hotels, dine in restaurants and support local businesses.”
“Apart from creating jobs, the stadium will inspire young people to take up cricket and other sporting activities. It will provide opportunities for talent development while contributing to the economic growth of the city,” another weighed in.
Notable progress has also been made on the construction of Grandstands A, B and C, the northern and southern media centres, players’ changing facilities, VIP pavilions, as well as the anti-doping and medical centre.
A substation and an additional 500 000-litre water reservoir have also been installed on site to support the smooth operation of the facility.
The developments are not by coincidence. During the ground-breaking ceremony of the facility in 2024, President Mnangagwa said his government is committed to infrastructure development, including that which is meant to promote sport tourism.
Once completed, the Victoria Falls Multipurpose Cricket Ground is expected to become one of the country’s premier sporting venues, while further strengthening Victoria Falls’ position as a leading tourism destination and contributing to Zimbabwe’s broader economic development.
