Malawi govt to reconsider demolition of Kamuzu Stadium

Malawi Government has assured Blantyre clubs that it would reconsider the decision to have the country’s football shrine  Kamuzu Stadium demolished in a bid to pave the way for the construction of a modern stadium at the same place.

Minister of Sports, Youth and Culture Grace Chiumia allayed the fears after Blantyre clubs expressed concern on the government’s decision to demolish the structure saying she will take up the issue to relevant authorities.

“The matter is still under consultation and we are open to suggestions but the process of demolition and construction will not take long,” Chiumia said.

Mighty Wanderers General Secretary Mike Butao said it would have been ideal for the government to construct a new stadium rather than demolish the existing structure which has a long football history for Malawi.

“Construction of a new stadium is commendable but demolishing an existing structure will not improve the situation because there is already lack of venues in the Southern Region particularly in Blantyre,” Butao said.

“We already incur high costs when travelling to Balaka, Nchalo and Lilongwe to play games. In my view the addition of a new stadium government should have also considered the renovation of Kamuzu Stadium.”

Bullets General Secretary Harold Fote said it would have been ideal for the government to construct a new stadium rather than demolishing the existing structure which has a long football history for Malawi.

Blantyre United Technical Director Lawson Nakoma also questioned the rationale behind the demolition of the stadium while many clubs in the Southern Region do not own grounds.
“I don’t know why government should demolish Kamuzu Stadium at the time we don’t have enough of such facilities,” Nakoma said.

Kamuzu Stadium is likely going to lose its status as a national stadium after the completion of an ultra modern stadium next year in the Capital Lilongwe financed by China.

Kamuzu Stadium has hosted more international games as Civo Stadium and Silver Stadium have lower capacity.