Africa-Press – Malawi. Minister of Youth and Sports Richard Chimwendo Banda has said he is optimistic that the Aquatic Sports Complex will be ready to host the swimming competition during the Africa Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Games.
The minister made the remarks Tuesday when he briefed journalists at Griffin Saenda Sports Complex ahead of the Games slated to run from Friday to December 11 in Lilongwe. Chimwendo Banda said the workers are working day and night to ensure that the facility is ready.
“The workers are making final touches to all the venues earmarked to host the games. Of course, it is not 100 percent done but let me assure Malawians that the facilities are almost ready,” Chimwendo Banda said.
The Griffin Saenda Sports Complex will host the netball, basketball and volleyball events whereas the swimming competition will take place at the Aquatic Sports Complex.
Chimwendo Banda said the work that has remained at the Aquatic Sports Complex is to put heaters and a timing system. In addition, the minister said athletes from all countries, except Lesotho, are already in the country.
He also assured Malawians that security will be tight at all the venues during the event. AUSC Region 5 Chief Executive Officer Stanley Mutoya said all is set for the Games.
“We are looking forward to successful Games in Malawi. The government has invested a lot in the Games,” Mutoya said.
The athletes will compete in sporting codes namely football, basketball, netball, volleyball, taekwondo, judo and athletics. President Lazarus Chakwera will preside over the opening ceremony at Bingu National Stadium on Friday.
Malawi Under-17 will face Botswana after the official opening of the Games. The games will be free of charge. Several activities live performances will spice up the event.
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