By Lamarana S. Jallow
To meet the standards required by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the governing body for African football, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, through the management of the Independence Stadium and friendship Hotel has commenced the second phase of remodeling and rehabilitation at the Gambia’s main football venue, the Independence Stadium.
This phase is part of the additional scope of work identified by CAF and is categorised into short-term and long-term projects. The short-term projects (Phase 2) or second phase focus on expanding the players’ tunnel, upgrading the media tribune and media center, raising the fence, painting, landscaping, adding parking signage, and installing a new scoreboard.
Additionally, this phase involves repairing leaks in the covered pavilion roof, rehabilitating the covered pavilion spectators’ toilets, landscaping the area surrounding the pitch, addressing issues with septic tanks, installing the main power supply to the pavilions, and revisiting the pump room.
These upgrades, when completed, are designed to meet CAF’s requirements for hosting international matches.
It is worth mentioning that the Independence Stadium was banned from hosting international events due to its poor condition. This remodeling aims to bring the national stadium up to standard, allowing it to once again host top-tier football matches.
The ministry is optimistic that if completed The Gambia will be able to host international matches.
