MBABANE – So close, but not yet there?
This adage remains the reality for Somhlolo National Stadium, as ongoing renovations strive to meet the international standards required to host major fixtures. Last July, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) identified seven key areas for improvement at the local football ‘Mecca’. Addressing these is essential for Eswatini to host category ‘A’ matches, including high-stakes inter-club competitions.
While the stadium currently holds a renewed partial approval based on ongoing refurbishments, key upgrades to dressing rooms and floodlights are now under the microscope. On Wednesday night, a CAF inspection team was seen assessing these improvements during MTN Premier League matches played under the lights.
Four inspectors were observed documenting the venue, with some using mobile phones to capture the floodlighting in action. While inspectors noted an improvement, they hinted that the current lighting intensity may not yet meet the required threshold.
However, sources close to the project suggest the system is currently operating at half-strength due to technical limitations and can be adjusted to reach full capacity.
The inspection comes at a precarious financial time for the facility. Parliament recently approved the redirection of E42 million, originally allocated for the stadium’s facelift, to Microprojects for the repair of rain-damaged roads. This leaves the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs facing a potential funding gap and outstanding debts to contractors who have already completed work. A supplementary budget remains the only viable path to finish the remaining overhauls.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
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