Following an inspection of the newly rehabilitated Kasama Sports Stadium, FIFA officials have stated that nothing prevents other stakeholders from undertaking additional improvement works at the facility. FIFA Lead Regional Development Officer David Fani, who led the inspection alongside Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) officials, expressed satisfaction with the completed works while acknowledging some aspects require conclusion. He emphasized that the project’s scope allows for other parties to assist the community in further enhancing the stadium.
“The scope is there for other parties to come in, even after completion of the project, if there are still works to be done. Other parties can come in and assist the community to improve the facility,” Fani stated. The $300,000 FIFA-funded project primarily covered pitch installation, civil works, and consultant fees.
Fani noted that while the installer did a good job, the pitch has deteriorated due to gaps in maintenance but can be restored with minor work. FAZ Northern Province Chairperson Chikonde Mbalazi announced that FAZ will provide 80 plastic chairs for the refurbished VIP area and assured that the pitch will be restored to its previous perfect condition. He called on the business community and civic leaders to partner in completing works outside FIFA’s scope, such as an additional, larger dressing room that was incorporated into the plans but requires further funding.
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The rehabilitation, part of five FIFA-funded projects across Zambia, included a facelift for the VIP area, perimeter fencing, two ablution blocks, and a ticketing office. The stadium is now largely complete, pending final touches and ongoing maintenance to preserve the facility.
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