FAZ: Contractor Putting Final Touches on Solwezi Independence Stadium Infrastructure
FAZ: Contractor Putting Final Touches on Solwezi Independence Stadium Infrastructure
The Football Association of Zambia has issued a response to concerns regarding the status of renovations at Solwezi Independence Stadium.
In a press statement shared with the ZamFoot Crew, it was clarified that while the pitch has been completed, some final touches are still required for the overall infrastructure.
FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga explained that the decision to partially approve the stadium for use was aimed at helping local teams avoid the high costs of playing their matches away from home.
He emphasized that the completion of the pitch was separate from the ongoing civil works, which are nearing completion.
Kamanga assured stakeholders that there would be an official handover ceremony for the stadium, similar to the one held for the David Kaunda Stadium, which was recently completed.
This handover will involve FIFA representatives, government officials, local authorities, and FAZ, and will be preceded by a thorough inspection by all stakeholders.
He also clarified that the majority of the funding for the Solwezi Independence Stadium project was allocated to the installation of the natural pitch, with the rest designated for rehabilitation, not for the construction of a new stadium. This clarification was made to manage public expectations regarding the project.
FIFA had awarded FAZ USD 1.5 million for five projects, including the Solwezi Independence Stadium renovations. These projects included pitch installation, perimeter wall fence, ticketing offices, ablution blocks, dressing rooms, and civil works on the grandstand.
The refurbished David Kaunda Stadium in Chipata was handed over by FIFA on September 23, 2023, in a ceremony officiated by the Minister of Youth, Sport, and Arts, Honorable Elvis Nkandu MP.
Despite the progress, there have been public expressions of disappointment over the current state of Solwezi Independence Stadium, particularly regarding the stands, perimeter, and overall appearance, prompting calls for an investigation into the renovation process.
