Walter Magaya’s Ambitious Vision: Building Zimbabwe’s Next Football Stadium

Zimbabwean football is set to benefit from yet another major infrastructure development, as Prophet Walter Magaya embarks on constructing a new stadium in Masvingo. This follows his ongoing project, Chahwanda Stadium (Heart Main Arena) in Kwekwe, which has been hailed as the second stadium to be built in Zimbabwe after independence.

Magaya’s Passion for Football Development

Prophet Walter Magaya, founder of the Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries and owner of Yadah FC, has consistently demonstrated his dedication to Zimbabwean football. His latest venture comes after his disqualification from the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidency race, where he had initially aspired to lead the country’s football governing body. Despite not meeting the candidacy requirements, Magaya has chosen to contribute in a different but equally impactful way—developing world-class football infrastructure.

ZIFA President Applauds Magaya’s Efforts

On January 25, 2025, Nqobile Magwizi was elected as the new ZIFA president. During his recent visit to the Chahwanda Stadium construction site, Magwizi expressed his admiration for Magaya’s commitment to the sport.

“This is impressive. Remember, this is only the second stadium to be built in Zimbabwe after independence. It is a major step forward for our football,” Magwizi remarked.

He was accompanied by ZIFA’s board member in charge of projects and infrastructure, Brighton Ushendibaba, who echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the importance of private-sector involvement in national football development.

Chahwanda Stadium: A Game-Changer

The Chahwanda Stadium, set to be the home ground for Hard Rock FC, is being developed in partnership with Kwekwe-based gold mogul Shepherd Chahwanda. The facility is expected to meet international standards, featuring bucket seats, well-structured stands, and additional amenities, including:

• A secondary B-Arena for training and youth development
• Shops and a small mall to cater to fans and visitors
• ZIFA offices
• Basketball and tennis courts

Magwizi, who has traveled to Spain and England to study international football infrastructure, expressed confidence in the project’s quality, stating, “This stadium will match what we have seen worldwide.”

Expansion Plans: Masvingo Next

Magaya’s vision does not stop in Kwekwe. Having proven his ability to mobilize resources and expertise, he now has his sights set on Masvingo as the next location for another football stadium.

“We need more stadiums across the country. If we want our football to grow, we must invest in infrastructure,” Magaya stated.

A New Era for Zimbabwean Football?

Magaya’s projects signal a potential shift in Zimbabwe’s football landscape, where private investment is beginning to play a critical role in sports infrastructure. If more business leaders follow suit, the country could see significant improvements in the quality of facilities available to teams and fans alike.

While Magaya may have missed out on leading ZIFA, his contributions off the pitch could be even more transformative. With the Chahwanda Stadium nearing completion and plans for a new facility in Masvingo underway, Zimbabwean football is on the verge of an exciting new chapter.