Malawi’s Minister of Youth and Sports Enoch Chihana said he is impressed with the work at Civo Stadium in readiness for the African Nations Cup (Afcon) game against Ghana in two weeks’ time.
Chihana said this after visiting the stadium in the capital, Lilongwe, together with senior officials from his ministry and Civo Stadium manager Peter Kandikole on Thursday.
“I think we will meet the deadline with the work I have seen. I do not doubt at all that the stadium will be fit for the Ghana game. Macsteel Limited (contractors) are doing great work here and I encourage them to show commitment,†said Chihana after the tour.
Kandikole also expressed confidence that the stadium will meet required conditions to host an international match despite reservations from some quarters.
“I know that some people doubt that Civo can host such a big fixture as this one, but I can assure the country that we will pass inspection once the work is completed. We are on track as you can see. In the past, this stadium used to host important matches and we cannot fail now,†said Kandikole.
Earlier, Football Association of Malawi (FAM) officials led by executive member James Mwenda also toured the stadium and expressed satisfaction with the progress on the ground.
“The turf is getting into shape and that is the most important thing. By next week, I believe it will be in perfect condition. The inner fence which collapsed during local games is being erected again and that is good for the protection of the players,†said Mwenda.
Meanwhile, it has been learnt that government has pumped K10.1 million (about $34 000) towards the renovation of Civo.
Chihana said government is committed to seeing that the facility is in good condition to host the showdown.
He said government does not want to take chances in the event that CAF decides to send inspectors in the countdown to the match.
Civo Stadium has a 20 000 seating capacity. The VIP stand sits 168 spectators, the covered stands sits 1 842 whereas the open stands accommodate 18 000.
