THE Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture ministry says it is finalising arrangements for the grand commissioning of Chahwanda Stadium — The Heart Main Arena — scheduled for February 28.
Ministry secretary Nicholas Moyo conducted a final tour of the Kwekwe facility yesterday, confirming that the stadium is ready for its high-profile debut.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to be the guest of honour, officially opening the doors to a venue that many hope will end Zimbabwe’s recent reliance on foreign grounds for international matches.
The construction of the 15 000-seater facility has been driven by a unique partnership between prominent gold magnate and Hardrock FC owner Shepherd Chahwanda, and renowned cleric Walter Magaya, who previously spearheaded the construction of The Heart Stadium in Harare.
The stadium will serve as the home ground for Chahwanda’s newly promoted side, Hardrock FC.
In a “trial by fire” opening to the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League, Hardrock will host defending champions Scottland FC on March 6, marking the venue’s first competitive topflight match.
Speaking during his tour, Moyo expressed confidence that the stadium would meet the rigorous standards required for CAF certification.
“I am very confident that the first match — whether local league or CAF Champions League — will prove this facility’s worth,” Moyo said.
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“In previous years, our teams had to travel to Botswana to host games.
“Our focus is to ensure that when our clubs play regional rivals, all roads lead to Chahwanda.”
Moyo praised Chahwanda for his investment, noting that such private-sector contributions are vital to achieving the nation’s Vision 2030 goals.
“This massiveness shows the lessons learned from constructing the original Heart Stadium.
“It reflects the desire to ensure Zimbabwe has world-class facilities capable of hosting continental qualifiers.”
Following the February 28 ceremony, all eyes will turn to the March 6 kickoff.
For the Kwekwe community, the stadium represents more than just a football pitch; it is a symbol of regional development and a long-awaited return to hosting elite sport on home soil.
