Passions Run High as Parliament Debates Stadia Projects

Lilongwe, Malawi – In a Monday parliamentary session, Minister of Trade and Industry, Sosten Gwengwe, addressed some inquiries regarding various public infrastructure projects underway.

The clarifications comes amidst growing public interest and parliamentary scrutiny over the progress and funding of key infrastructure projects in the country

Responding to Kasungu North member of Parliament Mike Bango, Minister Gwengwe clarified that certain requests fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Local Government, not the Ministry of Sports.

Last week, Honorable Bennex Mwamlima, Member of Parliament for Mzuzu City also raised questions about the stalled Mzuzu Youth Centre project.

Similarly, Honorable Bester Awali, representing Zomba City Central, sought updates on the operational timeline for the long-awaited Zomba stadium.

The government’s responses followed the announcement of the plans to resume works on two stadia allocated to FCB Nyasa Big Bullets FC and Mighty Mukuru Wanderers FC.

Sports Minister Uchizi Mkandawire assured the house that Mzuzu City is earmarked for the construction of a national stadium but made a point clear that currently, there are no public funds allocated for the construction of a stadium anytime soon.

Standing on a point of order, Rumphi West Member of Parliament, Yona Mkandawire emphasized the urgent need for a stadium in the northern region, specifically in Mzuzu City highlighting its importance to the youth.

Regarding the ownership of the two stadia being constructed for the Blantyre Super League giants, the Youth and Sports Minister indicated that these facilities are being built on public land using public funds.

“These are government facilities named Soche and Zingwangwa stadia standing on public lands,” said Mkandawire.

He also informed the house that Kamuzu Stadium will be demolished due to the high maintenance costs draining public financial resources.

However, there are concerns about the feasibility of funding the projects given the current economic challenges.

Meanwhile, the youth in Mzuzu City led by the Youth and Society (YAS) have been vocal about the need for better infrastructure and opportunities arguing that government’s plan to construct a national stadium in Mzuzu City is a step towards addressing some concerns.

YAS Executive Director Charles Kajoloweka said “initiatives like the Mzuzu City Youth Caucus are pushing for greater accountability and representation in national development projects”.