In a significant development, the Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, paid a visit to the National Stadium Reconstruction Project at Sykes Street today, Tuesday, September 19th, 2023.
The high-profile visit aimed to assess the progress of this vital infrastructure project.
Accompanying the Vice President were several prominent figures, including the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, the Minister of Sport, the Director of Sports in the ministry, and various sports authorities. Together, they embarked on a thorough examination of the reconstruction project, emphasizing its importance for the nation.
VP Juldeh Jalloh expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing work, assuring that the reconstructed stadium would not only meet international standards but also cater to the socio-economic needs of Sierra Leonean small businesses connected to football and other sporting activities.
Furthermore, Vice President Jalloh revealed that the stadium is expected to be completed by mid-September next year, showcasing the government’s commitment to this crucial project. He also announced plans for establishing a robust infrastructure management system to oversee the stadium and its facilities in the future.
The National Stadium Reconstruction Project, funded by a generous USD$40 million grant from the Government of the People’s Republic of China, encompasses a wide range of improvements. This includes the restoration, reinforcement, and redecoration of the stadium bowl, the pitch, practice field with artificial turf, pavilion, swimming pool, and ancillary facilities, as well as the renovation of the athletics track, hostel, Tennis, Basketball, and Volleyball courts.
The Vice President’s visit underlines President Julius Maada Bio’s dedication to expediting the project’s completion, much to the excitement of Sierra Leone’s sports-loving citizens. The project is slated for completion next year.
This visit signifies a crucial milestone in Sierra Leone’s efforts to revamp its sports infrastructure, offering the promise of an ultra-modern National Stadium with world-class facilities.
The Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi, expressed gratitude for the Vice President’s visit, reinforcing the anticipation surrounding the stadium’s transformation.
“Thank you Honorable Vice President for your visit as our sports-loving citizens excitedly await the completion of a refurbished National Stadium with ultra-modern facilities,” he stated.