Scott Sakupwanya has called for a dramatic increase in prize money for Zimbabwe’s top-flight league, proposing that the winners of the Castle Lager Premiership receive US$3 million — a figure that would make it the highest-paying league title on the African continent.
The Scottland FC president said the local game is undergoing a major transformation, driven by new investment, improved infrastructure and the introduction of the Munhumutapa Challenge Cup, which will award its winners US$1 million.
💰 A call for a financial reset
Speaking after his appearance on the club’s podcast, Sakupwanya said the domestic league must reflect these changes.
“When you look at what is happening in our football… it will only be fair for winners of the league to get US$3 million,” he said.
He argued that increased prize money would raise competitiveness, attract foreign talent and improve the overall quality of the league.
⚽ Changing landscape of Zimbabwe football
Zimbabwe’s Premiership has seen growing financial investment in recent years, with clubs upgrading facilities and strengthening squads.
Scottland FC — Sakupwanya’s flagship club — are among the biggest spenders and recently won the league title, pocketing US$100,000 under the current structure.
Clubs are also investing in infrastructure, with new stadium developments emerging across the country.
- The Chahwanda Stadium project in Kwekwe is one of the standout examples
- Scottland FC are building stadiums in Mabvuku and Ruwa
🌍 How it compares in Africa
If implemented, the proposed US$3 million prize would eclipse all current league payouts on the continent.
- South Africa (PSL): ~US$1.13 million
- Morocco: ~US$600,000
- Egypt: ~US$500,000
- Tunisia: ~US$300,000
- Tanzania: ~US$250,000
Even the new Munhumutapa Challenge Cup — at US$1 million — already outpaces most African league prizes.
📈 Vision for growth
Sakupwanya believes Zimbabwe’s economy and sponsorship potential can sustain such a leap.
“If we have such a kind of sponsorship… we will see how our football will develop,” he said.
He added that higher rewards would attract more players from across the region — including Zambia, Malawi, Namibia, Eswatini and West Africa — boosting competition and standards.
