Malawi National Council of Sports has said Kamuzu Institute for Sports (KIS) in Lilongwe has the potential to earn significant revenue if renovated and well maintained.
Sports Council board chairperson Jim Kalua said this on Tuesday when he, alongside fellow board members, toured the facility which is in a dilapidated state.
“This facility has a lot of space and facilities and if it can be renovated, it has potential to earn Sports Council significant revenue to help run sports in the country,” he said.
“The good thing is that the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture is aware of the situation and will visit the facility to appreciate the challenges.”
Kalua said they have already started a lobbying process with both the ministries of Youth, Sports and Culture and Finance, Economic Planning and Decentralisation to allocate fundsb towards the renovations.
Apart from visiting the structure, the board members also held a meeting with Sports Council management and staff to remind them of their core responsibilities.
“We reminded them on the need to follow the 10 core values of Sports Council, especially the need to refrain from corrupt acts,” said Kalua
Two weeks ago, the former minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Patricia Wiskes also toured of some sports facilities such as the Aquatic Centre and Bingu National Stadium where she also stated that if properly looked after, they can generate revenue for the ministry which can be channeled towards other development projects
It was also observed that most sports infrastructure in the country are in a state of ruin and there is need for huge investment from government.
KIS has space and rooms in an addition to the auditorium which is used to host events such as boxing, weddings, prayers and other gatherings.
It also has several netball, basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, but they are in a state of ruin.
