Online Reporter
Tongai Mashonga in Kwekwe
THERE is a new sense of optimism in Kwekwe as the soon to be completed Chahwanda Stadium moves closer to earning Confederation of African Football (Caf) Level Three certification, a milestone that would make it eligible to host international matches.
This ambition was underscored on Friday when renowned Mozambican stadium consultant and former Caf official, Muhammad Feizal Sidat, toured the stadium to assess ongoing construction and offer expert recommendations.
Owned by local mining magnate Shepherd Chahwanda in partnership with Prophet Walter Magaya, the stadium is nearing completion and has already impressed stakeholders with its modern features and ambition to meet Caf standards.
“This has been an exciting day for me and everyone I work with,” said Prophet Magaya. “We are committed to achieving Level Three Caf status, even if it means delaying the official opening. The feedback we received was enlightening.”
Sidat, who was invited by Prophet Magaya and other football stakeholders including Zifa, commended the facility’s progress and pointed out both strengths and areas requiring refinement.
“Overall, I’m satisfied with the visit. Hopefully, in time, this articulation and partnership will lead to the stadium being approved for Caf competitions, be it for national teams or club matches. I’m happy to support this journey,” said Sidat.
He was particularly struck by the design of the dressing rooms.
“The two dressing rooms have a unique circular layout I haven’t seen in other top-tier stadia. With the right lighting and finishing, this could be a fantastic space that enhances the pre-match experience for players,” he said.
According to Sidat, while some areas still need to be adjusted to align with Caf’s precise dimensions and safety protocols, the vision and execution are promising.
“We spent time going around with engineers, contractors and key personnel. The pace is good. With the right attention to detail, this stadium has serious potential,” he added.
Magaya echoed the sentiment, acknowledging that seemingly small but critical details, such as the players’ holding area before entering the tunnel, had been overlooked initially.
“He pointed out things we hadn’t seen, and it opened our eyes. We’ve resolved to address every concern raised. We believe we can get this right, especially with guidance from Caf certified officials like Shariff Mussa,” Magaya said.
Once completed, Chahwanda Stadium will be the official home ground of Central Region Division One side Hardrock FC, owned by Chahwanda.
With Premier Soccer League (PSL) newcomers Kwekwe United FC currently traveling 60km to Gweru for matches, the stadium could also serve as their future base, finally bringing top tier football back to the heart of the Midlands.
