SOCCER STADIUMS IN FIFA BOOST

FRANCIS CHIPALO writes

@SunZambia

Four local soccer stadiums are set for upgrading following increased funding to the Football Association Zambia (FAZ) by the world soccer governing body, FIFA.

FIFA will this year give FAZ US$3 million for operation, football and infrastructure development in Zambia.

FAZ president, Andrew Kamanga, through Secretary General Adrian Kashala told the Sun Sports that the association would upgrade Solwezi, Kasama, Mansa and Chipata stadia after FIFA increased funding to the association this year.

He said that the upgrade was meant to improve standards at the four stadiums which were below par.

“Our work to develop the beautiful game is set to receive a massive boost as FIFA increases funding to FAZ. 2019 will see us receive US$3 million,” Kamanga said.

Kamanga explained that US$1 million, representing an increased from US$500,000 Dollars in 2018 has been set for operational and football development expenditure, while US$2million will go towards infrastructure development.

He said that the upgrading of the stadiums shall be done in consultation with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Child Development.

Soccer fans have in the recent past been shunning watching league matches especially for Division 1 and other lower leagues due to poor state of playing fields and general infrastructure.

Most stadiums for teams in lower leagues were in a deplorable state and thereby making it difficult for supporters to enjoy the game of football especially during the rainy season.

Some officials from lower clubs recently expressed worry that it would be difficult for games to be played during the rainy season as most soccer venues were flooded.

On Saturday the 2nd, a super league match involving Kitwe United and Kabwe Warriors was abandoned in 55th minute due to a heavy downpour which submerged the pitch.