Eveline de Klerk
Maurice Kambukwe
WALVIS BAY- The long-anticipated renovations of the Kuisebmond stadium have officially started.
Last Thursday, the Municipality of Walvis Bay announced investing approximately N$3 million into the refurbishment of the stadium, which has remained unused for a long time.
Anita Kaihiva, the municipality’s spokesperson, said the initiative will improve the structure of the facility. The refurbishment of the stadium was initiated following a thorough structural assessment, carried out by Element Consulting Engineers, who identified the need for substantial repairs.
“This rehabilitation is crucial to ensure the stadium’s future and safety. We are pleased to begin the process of transforming Kuisebmond Stadium into a modern facility that will benefit the entire community,” she noted.
Kaihiva said the structural assessment had identified 11 critical areas needing renovations. These included the reinforcement of three primary stadium frames, and the repair of six front columns and two side-columns, all of which had shown different degrees of defects.
Furthermore, the defective roof slabs will be replaced to comply with necessary safety standards.
In addition, all hand railings will be upgraded to high-quality stainless steel to enhance safety and durability.
“The renovation also includes general upgrades, such as installing new bathroom accessories, door locks, kitchen sinks and refurbishing wooden seats. Other improvements include replacing timber beams above windows, and replacing the floodlight poles,” Kaihiva said, adding that the renovations are scheduled to be completed in April 2025.
In the meantime, Tostao Imbili, the chief executive officer of Blue Waters Sport Club, welcomed the development.
He said it is commendable that the leaders had acknowledged the issue, and taken action to rectify the situation.
“I think it was long-overdue. The municipality has neglected the stadium for many years, forcing us to use venues that don’t meet local football standards. This situation has also caused us to lose revenue, as we are compelled to seek alternative venues such as finding playing fields in Swakopmund, where we do not have as much fans,” he said. Acknowledging the efforts of the municipality, Paulus Shipanga, a native of Walvis Bay and a distinguished coach, expressed gratitude for what he called commendable work. He said football matches would attract a significant number of spectators among the local population.
“I am happy and excited. We have been struggling with fields in Walvis Bay, and felt like football had been taken away from the people.
Children can now watch their idols perform on the field and get inspired.
Home-ground advantage will be back, and it’s about time the stadium gets fixed,” added Shipanga.
In 2021, the DRC sport facility in Swakopmund also got a facelift.
-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na