Construction works at Maphisa Stadium briefly came to a standstill last week after workers downed tools, demanding payment of outstanding salaries.
The disruption, which halted progress on the project, has since been resolved, with employees receiving their wages and returning to work.
Maphisa is set to host this year’s national Independence Day celebrations on April 18, 2026 to be officiated by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, a first for Matabeleland South.
Workers are now racing against time to complete the project ahead of the April 13 deadline.
Sources who spoke to CITE said some of the employees responsible for ground preparation and other logistics had stopped work after going unpaid.
“The workers had been on strike for three days or so,” said sources.
However, Matobo District Ward 19 Councillor Nqobizitha Ngwenya confirmed the situation has since been resolved, with workers back on site.
“Authorities resolved the issue the following day after the workers started the strike. The workers have been paid their monies. They are now working and there is no pressure,” the councillor said in an interview.
Ngwenya said significant progress has been made on key sections of the stadium and associated facilities.
“They are finishing terraces in the stadium this week. They are just doing touch-ups now in most of the buildings. The changing rooms and ablution facilities are done, they are now just painting,” he said.
The councillor added that additional infrastructure linked to the project is also advancing, including classroom blocks, which are now at the plastering and painting stage.
“In terms of buildings, everything is going on well,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ngwenya noted that challenges remain with road infrastructure around the project.
“The challenge is on the road. While most of the roads within Maphisa town are now tarred, the main road, Bulawayo-Maphisa Road, is still lagging behind. The contractors are on the ground, but the movement is slow,” the councillor said.
Reached for comment, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South, Albert Nguluvhe, confirmed he had been aware of the incident but noted the matter had been resolved.
“I heard about the situation last week. I am in Gwanda and tomorrow will be in Bulawayo as I proceed to Maphisa,” he said.
Nguluvhe added he would be in a position to provide an update on the project’s progress after his visit.