Rufaro Stadium upgrades to resume as Harare seeks CAF compliance

Harare City Council is set to resume renovations at Rufaro Stadium as it seeks to meet CAF standards (image source)

HARARE — The City of Harare will soon resume renovation works at Rufaro Stadium as part of efforts to bring the historic venue up to Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards, Mayor Jacob Mafume announced on Wednesday. The stadium was temporarily cleared to host local Premier Soccer League matches amid a national shortage of compliant venues, but full-scale upgrades are now set to continue.

Mayor Mafume said the next phase of works will include the installation of bucket seats, digital screens and other infrastructure required for international matches. He said the city aims to convince CAF to allow continental competitions, including Champions League fixtures, to be hosted at Rufaro once the upgrades are complete.

The mayor described the renovations as part of a broader strategy to strengthen Harare’s capacity to host regional and continental football while reducing reliance on foreign venues. He said upgrading Rufaro would benefit top-flight clubs and contribute to the development of local football by providing a modern, compliant facility.

Mafume also emphasised the social value of investing in sport, noting that football and other sporting activities play a key role in youth development. He said structured sports programmes can help address drug and substance abuse by keeping young people engaged in positive activities.

There's planned upgrades including seating and digital infrastructure (image source)

The city council, Mafume said, will work with stakeholders including football authorities, local clubs and potential private partners to fast-track procurement and installation of equipment. While acknowledging financial and logistical challenges, he expressed confidence that phased upgrades could be implemented without disrupting ongoing league fixtures.

Local clubs and supporters welcomed the announcement, saying a refurbished Rufaro Stadium would restore pride in the venue and stimulate economic activity through increased matchday events. Community leaders urged the council to prioritise transparency, safety and accessibility throughout the renovation process.

As the upgrade process resumes, attention will focus on timelines and funding. If brought up to CAF standards, Rufaro Stadium could host high-profile continental matches, giving local teams home advantage and supporting Harare’s wider sporting and social objectives.