Zomba City Mayor, Christopher Jana, has urged sports enthusiasts to remain patient, as Zomba Stadium is expected to host elite sports games by the end of May, despite the TNM Super League kicking off next week.
Jana made the assurance following stadium inspections by the Football Association of Malawi (FAM), which certified and approved 11 stadiums across the country. However, Balaka and Chitipa Stadiums did not meet the required standards.
The mayor emphasised his commitment to ensuring the stadium opens for games as soon as possible, even in the face of funding challenges.
“There was a plan to finish construction before the football season starts, but delays in government payments to the contractor affected progress. That is why we explored other alternatives to fund the work. The main remaining task is completing the dressing rooms, which should be done by the end of May. The rains have also disrupted construction, but we should remain optimistic,” Jana said.
Bester Banda, Chairman of a group advocating for the stadium’s fast-tracked completion, shared the mayor’s optimism but was hesitant to commit to a specific completion date.
“Zomba sports fans should not panic. The pitch, tracks, netball court, and football field are in perfect shape. However, some stands near the dressing rooms and tunnels used by teams and officials still need work. Due to ongoing rains affecting cement application, I cannot give a definite time frame,” Banda stated.
However, Gracious Kubwalo, Chairman of the Zomba Sports Committee and a member of the Eastern Region Football Association, expressed frustration over the prolonged delays.
“Football in the Eastern Region is suffering. In the past, under-14 to under-20 teams used Zomba Community Ground for training, but since its closure, they have nowhere to train. Additionally, Red Lions FC was relegated because they couldn’t take advantage of a home ground. The delays have had a clear negative impact on football standards and development in the region,” Kubwalo said.
Residents of Zomba City and the Eastern Region remain skeptical about the stadium’s completion, as authorities have repeatedly shifted deadlines.
Construction of the 20,000-capacity stadium began in 2017 but has faced numerous setbacks due to inconsistent government funding and design changes. The project’s cost has now risen to six billion Kwacha.
