Times Of Swaziland: E35M FOR SOMHLOLO NATIONAL STADIUM UPGRADE

E35M FOR SOMHLOLO NATIONAL STADIUM UPGRADE
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Sanele Jele on 27/02/2024 09:03:00


MBABANE – The Somhlolo National Stadium, a multi-purpose stadium in Lobamba,
Eswatini, is set to undergo a significant upgrade.
The budget for this upgrade is reported to be E35 million, representing a
substantial increase from the previous financial year’s allocation of E15
million. The upgrade is expected to enhance the stadium’s facilities, making
it suitable for hosting international games and events. The injection of funds
will contribute to the refurbishment of the stadium, including the installation
of a new LED screen, a generator for power failure contingencies, and a new VIP
lounge.
The upgraded Somhlolo National Stadium is anticipated to benefit the national
soccer team, Sihlangu, and local teams, providing them with a modern and
well-equipped venue for hosting international games. After the budget speech by
Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg in Parliament yesterday, the Minister of
Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, expressed appreciation for the
budget allocation and emphasised the importance of accelerating the completion
of the refurbishment to meet the standards required by the Confederation of
African Football (CAF) for hosting games. While there are plans in place for the
construction of a new stadium, the immediate focus is on completing the
refurbishment of Somhlolo National Stadium as highlighted by Minister Nzima.
“Government is committed to promoting all sporting codes, and not reducing the
budget allocation reflects this commitment,” said the minister.
The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) CEO, Frederick Mngomezulu, highlighted
the significance of the upgrade, expressing the hope that the allocated funds
would contribute to shaping Somhlolo National Stadium into a venue ready to host
international games. He also stressed the willingness of the association to
collaborate with government to ensure that all CAF standards are met. Worth
noting is that the budget allocation for the past three financial years has been
E15 million for the country’s soccer Mecca.