High expectations in Kakyeka project

By Fred Turyakira

MBARARA residents have applauded Government’s plan to reconstruct Kakyeka stadium to international standards, saying it will not only boost sports in the region, but also development in general.

The Government is in talks with a Chinese firm, Anhui Foreign Economic Construction Group Company (AFECC), to draw model plans of the new-look facility. The firm is also a front runner to win the contract if the plans are approved.

The reconstruction which could start in June this year will be jointly funded by Chinese and Uganda Governments.

On completion the stadium will be equipped with international level facilities, including  an indoor stadium, swimming pool, cricket ground, training centre and hostel.

Mbarara residents and sports lovers shared their views and expectations with New Vision during and after the reconstruction.

Farouk Aswe, a soccer fan and video hall operator, said he expects the stadium to boost people’s business during competitions hosted in Mbarara. He also said it will also help in developing talent among the youth in the region once there are good facilities in place.

Akim Bamuhena, a taxi driver and a soccer lover, said the construction of modern stadiums will improve sports in the country. He also hopes to benefit on the business front once competitions like the East African Secondary Schools games are hosted in Mbarara. 

Dan Mugisha said: It will generate revenue for the Mbarara Municipal Council and business in the district and improve sports talent in the region.

Nicholas Muhingo, a boda boda cyclist, who also played at Kakyeka stadium during his time with Tigers FC and Mbiringi Garage FC, said playing on a poor pitch was hard, players would get injured on a soggy pitch during the rainy season. Since the government has come up with a plan to refurbish the ground, it will lift the morale for the players and fans to support local sports in the region, he added.

Rodgers Twijukye, a businessman, said: “With good sports facilities in place, supporters and fans will flock back to Kakyeka which they abandoned years ago due to its poor condition. It will also generate revenue for the council and have new sports on board and also develop the area.

Joseph Kakama, a farmer, said the new sports facility will improve on the development of the Municipality as they prepare to acquire city status, set up soccer academies in the region and can also bring in international coaches and sport scouts to attend competitions hosted in Mbarara.