AFCON qualifiers: Zimbabwe launches probe after Warriors fan dies

Zimbabwe’s government has announced plans to strengthen stadium security following the death of a Warriors fan during an incident at the National Sports Stadium.

The Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture said it would review crowd management, access control and emergency response systems at sporting venues following the tragedy.

The incident occurred during an AFCON qualifier match between Zimbabwe and DRC on Monday.

Fans attempted to gain entry into the stadium through unauthorised means, with some supporters reportedly breaking down a gate.

According to the ministry, efforts were subsequently made to disperse the crowd, resulting in the unfortunate incident that claimed the life of a passionate Warriors supporter.

Zimbabwe’s government launches investigation

Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Anselem Sanyatwe said the government was working with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Sports and Recreation Commission and the Zimbabwe Football Association to establish exactly what happened.

“The Government of Zimbabwe is working flat out with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Sports and Recreation Commission and ZIFA to ensure that this incident is fully and thoroughly investigated,” Sanyatwe said in a statement.

The minister said the investigation would seek to establish the facts surrounding the incident and ensure that a similar tragedy does not happen at Zimbabwean sporting venues again.

The ministry also confirmed that some fans sustained injuries during the incident.

Sanyatwe said the government was monitoring the condition of the injured supporters and wished them a speedy and full recovery.

Stadium security measures to be reviewed

The government has also indicated that stadium safety measures will come under scrutiny following the incident.

According to Sanyatwe, authorities will review and strengthen three key areas: crowd management protocols, access control measures and emergency response systems.

The announcement comes as Zimbabwe continues its campaign in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with the Warriors using the National Sports Stadium for their home matches.

The stadium has previously been unavailable for international football because of infrastructure and facility requirements, forcing Zimbabwe to play some of its home fixtures outside the country.

The latest incident is therefore likely to place renewed attention on the safety and organisation of major football matches at the venue.

Government promises decent burial

Sanyatwe also conveyed condolences to the family, friends and fellow Warriors supporters of the deceased fan.

He described the loss of a life while supporting the national team as a tragedy that had shaken the sporting fraternity.

The minister said government processes were already underway to ensure that the departed supporter is accorded a decent burial.

The investigation by the relevant authorities is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, while the planned review of stadium security could result in changes to how fans are admitted and managed at future sporting events.