eThekwini Municipality Invests R6.8m In Backup Generators For KZN Football Stadiums
As Moses Mabhida Stadium undergoes major redevelopment, the eThekwini Municipality has pledged multi-million rand upgrades to four alternative venues, allocating nearly R7 million for new generator installations.
The backup generators have been installed at four key sports facilities: King Zwelithini, Princess Magogo, Sugar Ray Xulu, and Mpumalanga Stadiums.
According to an official statement from the city, a total of R6.8 million was spent to ensure floodlights remain operational during live matches amidst ongoing regional power disruptions.
These venues serve as home grounds for several professional teams: Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium hosts Milford FC; Princess Magogo Stadium hosts AmaZulu FC and Richards Bay FC; while Golden Arrows utilize King Zwelithini Stadium.
Meanwhile, Mpumalanga Stadium hosts Motsepe Foundation Championship side Midlands Wanderers, who currently occupy 12th place in the league standings.
“To enhance resilience and service continuity across municipal facilities, the Commercial Sports Facilities Directorate installed generators at four community stadia: King Zwelithini, Princess Magogo, Sugar Ray Xulu, and Mpumalanga Stadiums, at a total investment of R6.8 million,” the city stated.
“This strategic investment ensures uninterrupted operations during power disruptions and enhances the reliability of these venues for both community and professional use.
“At Mpumalanga Stadium, floodlights were installed for R8 million, enabling the facility to host night matches and large-scale events, thereby expanding its commercial viability and accessibility to the community.”
The city further highlighted ongoing stadium refurbishment projects across the municipality:
“During the 2023/24 financial year, the change rooms at Mpumalanga Stadium were refurbished to meet modern standards. In addition, the Directorate completed the refurbishment of the change rooms at Chatsworth Stadium, significantly improving facilities for athletes and enhancing the overall user experience.
“Through these investments, the City continues to demonstrate its commitment to upgrading sporting infrastructure, supporting sporting development, and positioning municipal facilities to contribute to economic growth and community wellbeing.”
King Zwelithini Stadium will be the sole eThekwini venue in action this weekend, hosting the KwaZulu-Natal derby between Golden Arrows and Milford FC on Saturday.
Domestic league action is scaled back this weekend as four South African clubs—Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Durban City—turn their attention to CAF continental club competitions.
