Africa-Press – Gambia. The Minister of Works, Transport, and Infrastructure, Ebrima Sillah, has described the ongoing renovations at the Independence Stadium as “phenomenal,” highlighting significant progress in addressing concerns raised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
In an interview with West Coast Radio, Minister Sillah said the government acted swiftly after the initial issues were identified, ensuring that the stadium meets CAF’s standards. The scope of the project was also expanded to include the surrounding infrastructure.
“A phenomenal job has been done at the stadium. When the first issue was raised that the renovation happened without consultation with CAF, we responded efficiently to their standards. They later came back to say that in addition to the stadium, we also need to fix the adjacent roads leading to the stadium and a parking center, so right now, Arezki is doing the roads as I speak to you,” the minister said.
The road improvements cover routes from Bertil Harding to the National Youth Service behind the stadium, extending to New Town and the main entrance.
Minister Sillah also addressed issues concerning the stadium pitch. He explained that the contractor had offered to train stadium management on proper maintenance, but the offer was declined.
“When they fixed the pitch, it was suggested to the stadium management for them to continue to train them, but they said they would be okay with it. Unfortunately, I think the way they were watering the pitch, a lot of weeds started coming out, and it kind of overgrew the pitch,” he noted.
Regarding unpaid bonuses for national team players, the minister confirmed that the government is aware of the issue and is taking steps to resolve it.
“What I am made to understand is that these are bonuses, and the government is aware of it now. Discussions are underway to assure them that those ones will be settled. We hope the players will listen and then play, and then they get paid,” he said.
While acknowledging the financial challenges the government faces in meeting all demands, Minister Sillah reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to sports development. “It is always difficult for a resource-constrained country to meet all expectations,” he said.
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