The second round of matches in the 2024 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season kicks off this afternoon, with games scheduled across the country.
It marks a historic occasion for the Shamva football community as they witness Castle Lager Premier Soccer League action for the first time ever at Wadzanai Stadium. The venue, approved by ZIFA’s First Instance Board, was previously unavailable for Simba Bhora’s home matches, forcing them to play away during their promotion from the ZIFA Northern Region Division One league.
Through collaborative efforts between Simba Bhora leadership, the community, and local authorities, key improvements were made to meet minimum requirements for hosting Premiership matches. This included enhancing the playing surface, installing bucket seats, upgrading changing rooms, ablution facilities, and turnstiles.
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Similarly, Manica Diamonds will utilize Sakubva for their home matches after the stadium received approval to host Premiership matches. The focus was primarily on essential areas, such as improving the playing field and drainage system, to meet the FIB’s criteria.
In Chisumbanje, Greenfuel’s home venue, the Greenfuel Arena, met basic requirements, allowing the club to secure survival in the Premiership during their debut season. The venue’s approval was obtained without extensive renovations, providing an opportunity for future upgrades.
Other venues across the country, including Bata Stadium in Gweru, Nyamhunga in Kariba, Luveve in Bulawayo, Gibbo in Triangle, and the Colliery in Hwange, have also met the FIB’s minimum requirements.
However, the situation contrasts sharply with Rufaro Stadium in Harare, which remains unavailable for Premiership matches despite ongoing refurbishments over the past three years. Despite efforts by Harare City Council, led by Mayor Jacob Mafume, key requirements outlined by the FIB, such as dressing rooms and toilets, have not been adequately addressed.