E400K RETRACTABLE TUNNEL FOR SOMHLOLO

LOBAMBA – In a last-ditch effort to modernise Somhlolo National Stadium, the last piece of the puzzle is set to arrive in the country next week.

This is a retractable tunnel according to the Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima. Nzima revealed this development yesterday after touring the country’s soccer ‘mecca’s progress under the Phase IV renovations. “They have promised me that by next week Friday, the retractable tunnel will already be in the country,” the Sandleni Member of Parliament (MP) told the members of the media.

Further probing by this publication revealed that the tunnel, which has already been paid for, cost an estimated E401 000. The minister went round the stadium accompanied by a delegation that included his ministry’s Principal Secretary (PS) Prince Mlayeto, Director of Sports Lucky Sihlongonyane and officials from the ministry.

The Eswatini Sports and Recreation Council (ESRC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Darius Dlomo was also present, as well as representatives from the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) and Premier League of Eswatini (PLE). After inspecting the ongoing work carried out by the contractor, CA Construction, Nzima expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality of the renovations. He noted the refurbishments are expected to be completed urgently, particularly as preparations ramp up for the Ingwenyama Cup finals, which are expected to be played at Lobamba.

Nzima added that plans are underway to explore ways to make the 56-year-old structure self-sustainable, allowing it to fund its own repair without relying solely on government budgets. The minister said this strategy aims to ensure that Somhlolo remains up to standard during the transitional period leading to the construction and completion of a new national Olympic stadium. This world class stadium construction is set to commence in the 2026/27 government fiscal year.

On another note, the PS also clarified that while the synthetic track has been upgraded; it has unfortunately sustained some damage and needs repairs.
Worth noting is that among some latest enhancements at the stadium are wheelchair- accessible seating and accessible toilets, providing separate sanitary facilities for individuals with disabilities.

Delight

EFA CEO Frederick Mngometulu expressed his delight at the progress of the renovations, saying that the national team, Sihlangu, is on the verge of making a comeback in the country. Mngometulu confirmed that a trial of the facilities would take place during the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund (SMVAF) finals. This includes the lighting system which would now primarily be powered by the back-up power generator. Another one would be the display of the fixture, score and time played.    

Once satisfied with the results, he said they will invite the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Stadium Inspection Team to assess the venue and approve it that it meets the minimum requirements set forth. Meanwhile, Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) Chairman Polycarp Dlamini anticipates financial benefits for both the organisation and the teams once Somhlolo becomes accessible.

Dlamini noted that teams will save on travel costs and return to playing matches closer to their fan base. However, he emphasised that the availability of Somhlolo would not inhibit their commitment to spreading games across the country.

What is a retractable tunnel?
A retractable tunnel is a flexible, temporary structure that connects the locker room or area under the stands to the field, allowing players to enter and exit safely and conveniently. It can be retracted when not in use, providing a safe pathway for players while protecting them from potential hazards such as adverse weather conditions or objects on the field.

Typically made from lightweight, durable materials like aluminium or PVC, a retractable tunnel boasts a flexible design that allows it to be folded and stored away when not in use. This feature frees up valuable space for other purposes, ensuring the venue remains versatile and functional.

List of things done;

• Accessible gates and toilets
• Diplomatic gate
• Disability area room
• Technical benches
• Service parking
• Training area
• VIP hospitality and holding area
• Wall fencing
• Control room
• Media tribunal area
• Stand-alone generator

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