Story by Lawrence Trusida
THE Government is planning to construct a new world-class national stadium in Mount Hampden as part of broader efforts to modernise Zimbabwe’s sports infrastructure and position the country to host major international events.
The proposed project was disclosed in a statement published on the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion’s X platform following a high-level meeting with representatives of the Mabetex Group on the sidelines of the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
According to the ministry, the envisaged facility will be a multi-purpose stadium built to international standards, featuring a retractable roof and designed to host football and rugby matches, major concerts and other large-scale global events.
Government said the project is expected to stimulate urban development in Mount Hampden, create opportunities for young people and enhance national pride, while strengthening Zimbabwe’s competitiveness as a destination for international sport and entertainment.
The engagement in Davos involved Mabetex Group founder and chairperson Mr Behgjet Pacolli, alongside the company’s general counsel Mr Korab Toplica, with authorities indicating that the discussions are expected to bolster the project’s technical and commercial viability.
The Ministry of Finance noted that the initiative aligns with global trends that increasingly recognise sport as a key economic driver, particularly for countries with growing youthful populations.
The announcement comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s national teams are hosting international fixtures outside the country, following the failure of local stadiums to meet Confederation of African Football standards.
Government said refurbishment works at the National Sports Stadium are progressing, as part of parallel efforts to ensure the return of international football to home soil.
