President Adama Barrow recently inspected the ongoing renovations at the Independence Stadium. The visit is aimed at transforming the historic sports edifice into a modern, multi-functional sports facility. The President was accompanied by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, and the Stadium’s General Manager, Mr. Ebou Faye, during the tour.
Mr. Ebou Faye, General Manager of the Independence Stadium and Friendship Hotel briefed the President on the renovation’s progress, indicating that the project is on track and it is expected to be completed by the end of the year. He assured the Head of State that the upgraded stadium will meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards and that plans are underway to invite CAF for inspection and certification team upon completion, This will avail The Gambia the opportunity to once again host international matches.
President Barrow expressed satisfaction with the progress and praised the efforts of the contractors and consultants involved. He urged them to maintain their momentum and ensure the timely completion of the remodelling of the stadium.
Commenting on the current ban preventing the stadium from hosting home matches, President Barrow remarked, “It is unfortunate that the stadium is banned for home matches. I believe the previous government should have addressed this issue. It’s not our fault, and it’s not our doing. We will fix it and consider building another one in the future.”