Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Gibson Mhaka
PREPARATIONS for the Zimbabwe National Football team, the Warriors’ participation in the 2025 African Cup of Nations in Morocco next year, received a boost after the Government made a provision of US$1 million.
This timely injection of funds is expected to alleviate financial constraints that have often hampered the Warriors’ preparations and performance in recent years.
Presenting the 2025 National Budget Statement on Thursday afternoon, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube announced a US$1 million lifeline for the Warriors’ preparations, highlighting that the Sports, Arts, and Culture sectors significantly contribute to employment creation, mitigate drug and substance abuse, and serve as catalysts for economic growth.
To support these sectors, ZiG888,4 million was allocated to the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture.
“This allocation is meant to facilitate country-wide identification and development of talent in sport, arts and culture among the youth, as well as the rehabilitation of national sports stadia, multi-purpose sports facilities and other recreation facilities across all provinces.
“Specifically, ZiG189 million is meant to complete the renovations of the National Sports Stadium to make it usable during the year 2025.
“Government has also made a provision of US$1 million for the preparations and participation of the Zimbabwe National Football Team (Warriors) for the 2025 African Cup of Nations (Afcon) set for December 2025 in Morocco,” said Minister Ncube.
He said the budget will also support the construction of the National Culture Village and Conference Centre, the Kanyemba Arts and Cultural Centre, as well as other community arts and culture spaces, strengthening cultural infrastructure nationwide.
“Government also recognises the potential of the local film and cultural heritage, hence the need to revitalise the industry to promote tourism and stimulate economic growth, leveraging on the country’s rich cultural heritage.
“The industry has the potential to create jobs and increase foreign investment, attract visitors by highlighting the country’s unique cultural and historical assets, as well as the diverse cultural narratives and natural attractions, “said Minister Ncube.
To support the film and cultural heritage industry, the Budget also allocated resources for establishing and equipping two public film studios in Harare and Bulawayo, in order to identify and nurture talent among the youths.
Minister Ncube said the Government will continue to explore additional support in the form of both tax and non-tax incentives to promote the industry.
