The Government of Zambia has received a K2.6 million cheque from ZSIC General Insurance Limited to support the repair of the roof at the National Heroes Stadium. Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Elvis C. Nkandu, described the development as a key milestone in the ongoing efforts to restore and modernize the country’s premier sports facility. The National Heroes Stadium serves as a critical venue for national and international sporting events and plays an important role in promoting unity through sport. While substantial progress has been made, including the installation of a hybrid playing surface, Minister Nkandu noted that roof rehabilitation is essential for the stadium to resume full operations and host competitive matches. The payout provides the necessary funding to address this crucial component and move the restoration process forward.
Minister Nkandu explained that the delay in roof repairs was largely due to the insurance claims process, as the stadium is insured against damage. He emphasized that timely insurance payouts are vital for the swift restoration of public infrastructure and for maintaining public confidence in government projects. The Minister highlighted the National Heroes Stadium as a national asset that contributes to sport development and the country’s international sporting profile. Restoring the roof is a priority to ensure the stadium meets both safety and functional standards required for major events. He also reassured the public that the Ministry is committed to completing the rehabilitation efficiently once funding and materials are in place.
Speaking on the payout, ZSIC Managing Director Trevor Jengajenga affirmed the company’s commitment to protecting national assets and supporting national development initiatives. He explained that the stadium roof was damaged by severe storm winds on separate occasions, and that the released funds will cover both material and installation costs. The funds have already been transferred to the Ministry to facilitate prompt commencement of the repairs. Mr. Jengajenga further noted that ZSIC General Insurance paid out over K500 million in claims in 2025 across various sectors, underscoring the company’s financial strength and reliability in fulfilling obligations. This payout reflects the company’s active role in maintaining critical infrastructure across the country.
Government has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring the National Heroes Stadium to international standards. Once the roof rehabilitation is complete, the facility will be fully operational and able to host national and international sporting events safely. The Ministry has indicated that works on the roof are expected to commence soon, signaling a major step toward reopening the stadium to the public. Beyond sports, the rehabilitation is a demonstration of coordinated efforts between government agencies and private-sector partners to preserve key national assets. Completion of these works will ensure the stadium continues to serve as a hub for community engagement, national pride, and international sporting activities.
The receipt of the K2.6 million insurance payout represents a decisive step in the ongoing restoration of the National Heroes Stadium. It ensures that critical repairs are no longer delayed and positions the facility to regain full operational capacity. Minister Nkandu and the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts remain focused on restoring the stadium to a standard that meets both national and international requirements. The collaboration between ZSIC General Insurance and government underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in sustaining infrastructure. Once complete, the fully rehabilitated stadium will continue to support Zambia’s sporting ambitions and provide a safe, world-class venue for athletes and spectators alike.