…promises another one in Masvingo
By Virginia Njovo
Heart Group of Companies Director Walter Magaya promised to fulfil his pledge of renovating Mucheke Stadium and to construct another one in Masvingo city, saying work will start on May 1 this year.
He made the revelation during a stakeholder meeting held at Masvingo City Council Chambers on February 18 and said he was working on the paperwork required to start the work.
“I am sure by May 1 2025 we will start construction of new stadium here in Masvingo as well as renovating Mucheke stadium with a target of making it have a carrying capacity of 2000 people.
“I am sure by that time all feasibility work as well as engaging responsible stakeholders and all paperwork should be done,” said Magaya.
He added that he was going to do the work at the same time considering the fact that while Mucheke Stadium was condemned beyond international standards, he was going to renovate it for Premier Soccer League standards (PSL) and construct a new one that would meet international standards.
“Since Mucheke Stadium is sub-standard, we cannot bring out an international stadium from it, however, we are grateful that the City of Masvingo pledged to provide land for the construction of a new stadium whilst renovating the old Mucheke one since there is an attachment between Mucheke community and the stadium,” said Magaya.
He went on to appeal to the media to work hand in hand with his company as he does the projects saying it was the only voice that can be heard by the society.
“I am calling for the fourth estate to do collaborative efforts with Heart Group of Companies in publicising the philanthropic work we are doing, we know people listens to the media more and this will help us to the project sustainability as community will buy in the concept,” said Magaya.
In November last year during a tour of Mucheke Stadium, Magaya said if given the opportunity he would want 90 days to revamp the stadium.
Magaya’s commitment to sports infrastructure development has been evident in his previous projects in Mutare, Kwekwe, Kadoma and the Heart Stadium in Harare.
The renovation project is expected to transform the stadium into the state of the art facility enhancing the sporting experience for athletes and other sporting activities.
In its 2025 budget, Masvingo City council allocated Mucheke Stadium Renovation (Phase 1) a total of US$ 80,000.
