Tendai Muererwa
Mutare – For decades, Sakubva Stadium has stood as the heartbeat of football in Mutare — a venue filled with unforgettable moments, passionate supporters and the rich sporting culture of the eastern border city.
Now, the long-awaited arrival of bucket seats signals the beginning of a bold new chapter in the stadium’s history, as authorities intensify efforts to transform the facility into a modern sporting arena.
The delivery of the bucket seats marks a major milestone in the ongoing rehabilitation and remodeling programme at Sakubva Stadium. Once installed, the seats are expected to dramatically change the appearance and comfort of the stadium, bringing it closer to international standards and improving the overall match-day experience for supporters.
Contractors are already on site carrying out surface preparation works ahead of the installation process, while broader renovations are also underway. The facelift includes plans to upgrade the playing turf, refurbish changing rooms, modernise media facilities, improve tunnels and ablution blocks, expand the car park, and increase entry and exit points to enhance safety and convenience for spectators.
The City of Mutare has been implementing the renovations through an incremental approach over the years, steadily working towards restoring the stadium to its former glory while adapting it to modern football requirements.
City of Mutare Principal Communications Officer Charles Sadondo said the project is expected to gather momentum following the delivery of the bucket seats. “The Sakubva Stadium upgrade project is expected to gather momentum following the delivery of the much-awaited bucket seats. The newly delivered seats will cover the entire stadium, and a significant transformation is anticipated once installation is complete,” said Sadondo.
He added that the project aligns with the city’s long-term vision of turning Sakubva Stadium into a facility capable of hosting international matches once renovations are completed. Sadondo also commended residents and stakeholders for continuing to support council initiatives through the payment of rates and other obligations, which help fund service delivery and infrastructure development projects.
Beyond football, the renovation of stadiums such as Sakubva is crucial for the future of sport and urban development. Modern stadiums are no longer just venues for matches they are economic and social assets that attract investment, tourism, entertainment and community activities. Upgrading sporting infrastructure ensures cities keep pace with global standards while creating safer, more comfortable and more inclusive environments for fans and athletes alike.
For Mutare residents, the transformation of Sakubva Stadium represents more than construction work. It symbolises progress, pride and renewed hope for the return of top-flight football to a venue worthy of the city’s deep sporting passion. As the facelift continues to take shape, many supporters are optimistic that the iconic stadium will once again become one of Zimbabwe’s premier football venues.
