Mthuli Ncube Announces New Measures to Revive Sports Facilities

The Government of Zimbabwe has introduced a new set of tax incentives designed to motivate companies to construct or upgrade sports facilities, as part of a broader push to restore the country’s declining sporting infrastructure.

The announcement comes at a time when Zimbabwe has no CAF-certified stadium, a situation that has forced both national teams and local clubs to host their continental matches outside the country.

In the absence of compliant venues, some clubs — including Hardrock FC — have taken the initiative to build their own stadiums.

According to the proposed measures, businesses that invest in public sports facilities will be eligible for a 150% tax deduction spread over two years.

Practically, this means a company investing US$1 million in stadium development can deduct US$1.5 million from its taxable income. The incentive package also provides duty-free access to specialised stadium equipment such as turf, seating, lighting systems, and scoreboards.

In addition, the Government has allocated ZiG841.4 million (about US$32 million) to the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture to fund key projects, including outstanding works at the National Sports Stadium.

Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube outlined the new incentives while presenting the 2026 national budget.