China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation says it is ready to complete the construction of the Aquatic Centre in Lilongwe by the end of the year. Works at the Aquatic Centre at Kamuzu Insititute for Sports stalled in 2022 due to several factors, including lack of funding. However, site manager David Duan yesterday said they are eager to finish the project this year.
“We are hoping to finish this year and hand over the facility to your government,” he said. Duan made the remarks when Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Patricia Wiskes toured the facility. The minister said it is the government’s wish to see the project completed as soon as possible so that the facility can be opened.
Wiskes said her visit was meant to appreciate the progress of the development and assess how much funding is required to complete the project. She said: “We owe the contractors over K1.5 billion under the contractual agreement. It’s not only about the financial situation but structural integrity as well.
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“The longer we take to complete the structure, it means the structure will become too dilapidated before we can use it. “That’s why we are committing to inspect the progress and discuss with the Ministry of Finance to ensure funds are allocated in the next budget. That’s the reason we are here today.” Apart from the swimming pool, the Aquatic Centre will have office space, restaurants and a gym, among other facilities. In addition to visiting the Aquatic Centre, Wiskes also toured the Bingu National Stadium.
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