BAT Stadium project set for second phase

BAT Stadium project in Blantyre is set for the second phase, but  awaits the nod from the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Authority (PPDA).

Malawi National Council of Sports chief executive officer  Henry Kamata said this in Blantyre on Wednesday during a press briefing on the project’s progress.

The construction of the 17 000 capacity stadium was divided into three phases. The first  comprised the demolition of existing structures, earth works and levelling while the second phase involves procurement of construction materials and the erection of the structure.

“We are now going into the second phase as we floated adverts for construction companies to bid. The procurement process has also started and we are waiting for a no objection from PPDA for the erection of the structure to start. We expect that this will roll out in the third quarter of this financial year between October and November,” Kamata said.

The stadium, which will be completed in 2026, is expected to have covered stands and an office complex to help generate income for the facility’s maintenance.

Kamata said with the Kamuzu Stadium condemned for international matches due to its dilapidated state, the BAT Stadium will help in ensuring that the commercial city hosts some Flames and other  international club matches.

“Currently, Blantyre doesn’t have a sports facility that befits its status as the country’s commercial hub. Once the BAT Stadium is complete, that problem will be history,” he said.

When it was put to him that BAT Stadium will have a problem with car parking considering that it has no adequate space, Kamata said international standards require that car parks should be away from stadiums.

“Car parks at the stadiums create congestion and it becomes difficult for people to easily evacuate the facility in case of emergencies. Taking this in mind, we plan to clear the land close to Sports Council offices for the car park,” he said.

FCB Nyasa Big Bullets chief executive officer Albert Chigoga on Thursday said it will be a relief if the BAT Stadium will  pass the test of hosting international matches.

“As Bullets, we frequently compete in CAF Champions League and having a facility to host such games in Blantyre will be a big relief,” he said.