Chronicle Editor
Harare Bureau
President Mnangagwa will lay the foundation stone to mark the commencement of construction work at the international cricket stadium in the Masuwe Special Economic Zone for Tourism in Victoria Falls.
Last year, Zimbabwe Cricket was allocated 10 hectares of land for the construction of an international cricket stadium and ancillary facilities.
The stadium will be used in the hosting of the 2026 and 2027 Cricket World Cup jointly with South Africa and Namibia.
Yesterday, Cabinet considered and noted the update on the project as jointly presented by the Acting Minister of Sport, Arts and Recreation, Dr Jenfan Muswere, and the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Babra Rwodzi.
The project will contribute towards the US$5 billion Tourism and Hospitality Industry by 2025, as well as the development and expansion of sports infrastructure in the country.
“Tourism is a key pillar of the Zimbabwean economy and ranks at number three after Mining and Agriculture and accounting for 12 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product during the period January to September 2023.
“Thus, the international cricket stadium and associated facilities will significantly contribute to the growth of the national Gross Domestic Product.
“The construction of the cricket facilities and associated infrastructure will also create training and employment opportunities for communities in Victoria Falls.
“Under the Integrated Tourism Resort initiative, sustainable tourism will be promoted in line with the United Nations Tourism ethos.
“The diverse tourism business facilities in the resort town are expected to blend with the natural environment,” read part of a post-Cabinet briefing statement.
Online Reporter