President to lay foundation stone, as World Cup pr...

President to lay foundation stone, as World Cup preparations take shape

**Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere**

Oscar J Jeke

Zim Now Reporter

Zimbabwe Cricket has confirmed preparations for construction of a stadium that will jointly host the 2026 and 2027 Cricket World Cup with South Africa and Namibia, with President Mnangagwa set to lay the foundation stone to mark commencement of the construction.

The International stadium that will sit on 10 hectares of land in Masuwe Special Economic Zone for Tourism in Victoria Falls, is one of the major contributors to the US$5 billion Tourism and Hospitality industry projection for the year 2025.

The development was confirmed by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, at the post-Cabinet briefing yesterday in Harare, where he noted that the construction of the cricket facilities and ancillary facilities will significantly contribute towards national Gross Domestic Product.

“Zimbabwe Cricket was allocated 10 hectares of land for the construction of an international cricket stadium and ancillary facilities in the Masuwe Special Economic Zone for Tourism in Victoria Falls. The stadium will be used in the hosting of the 2026 and 2027 Cricket World Cup jointly with South Africa and Namibia. His Excellency the President, Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa will lay the foundation stone to mark the commencement of the international cricket stadium. 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% 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,” said Minister Muswere.

The minister also create employment and training for communities in the Victoria Falls area, through construction of various infrastructure that include resorts, along with the construction of the stadium.

“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,” he added.

The Tourism industry has been one the major contributor to the country’s GDP, accounting for at least 12% of the national GDP, falling only behind Mining and Agriculture in the biggest contributor pecking order.