Minister Machakaire Unveils Strategy to Boost Sustainability in Sports and Arts

The Acting Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Hon. Tino Machakaire, has unveiled a set of proposals designed to strengthen sustainability and financial self-reliance across Zimbabwe’s sport and cultural sectors.

Presenting during the 2026 Pre-Budget Seminar, Hon. Machakaire emphasized that the Ministry is prioritizing measures that will stimulate private sector investment, improve revenue generation, and ensure that national institutions can operate with reduced dependency on the fiscus.

The Minister revealed that a policy paper on tax incentives has been submitted to the Treasury to encourage corporate sponsorships and donations towards sports, arts, and cultural development. The proposal aims to reward organizations that contribute to national talent development and infrastructure growth.

“We want to create an environment where investing in sport and culture is not only patriotic but also economically rewarding. Tax incentives will help unlock new financing streams and deepen private sector participation,” said Hon. Machakaire.

He further noted that leasing models have been identified as viable management options for national facilities such as stadiums, art galleries, and festivals. This approach is expected to enhance operational efficiency and revenue collection.

Additionally, pilot studies on facility revenue retention are currently underway at the National Sports Stadium and selected art galleries, aimed at testing models that allow institutions to retain a portion of their income for maintenance and development.

“The Ministry is steering a strategic framework focused on achieving financial autonomy for public facilities,” he added.

Central to this vision is the establishment of a Sport and Culture Investment Fund (SCIF) — a dedicated vehicle to attract diaspora remittances, corporate financing, and institutional investments into the creative and sporting industries.

Hon. Machakaire also highlighted plans to formalize partnerships with financial institutions to improve access to credit for creatives and athletes, enabling them to professionalize and expand their enterprises.

He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to positioning sport, arts, and culture as key drivers of economic growth, employment creation, and youth empowerment under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and Vision 2030.

“Our goal is to build a vibrant and commercially viable sector that promotes talent, strengthens national identity, and contributes meaningfully to Zimbabwe’s economy,” Hon. Machakaire concluded.