Ongoing rain has delayed the laying of an artificial turf at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, the constructor undertaking the project has claimed but remains optimistic of a timely completion.
A Dar es Salaam-based company, EKIKA, Director Ben Mushi blamed wet weather for the construction delays as he briefed Zanzibar Vice-President Maalim Seif Sharif Hamad, who visited the venue to see the progress of the project.
Mushi said the remaining task is not big but the ongoing rain has been interfering with the work, posing a huge challenge for them.
However, he said despite the challenge, they will make sure the artificial turf is laid on time. “We’ll make sure that the stadium is complete for the 50th Zanzibar Revolution Anniversary,” he said.
The project had initially been expected to be completed by the second week of this month. On his part, Amaan Stadium Manager Khamis Ali Mzee, echoed the sentiment that the laying work will be completed without further delay.
The completion of the stadium refurbishment is expected to boost soccer promotion in the Isles. Upon its completion, the Amaan Stadium will be used to host soccer matches in a broad daylight as well as under floodlights. The stadium underwent refurbishment again with Chinese assistance in 2010.
Pemba-based Gombani Stadium has also been installed with an artificial turf as part of the SMZ policy to promote sports in the Isles.
While the Amaan Stadium was constructed through a grant by the Chinese Government in the early seventies, the Gombani Stadium was a product of a similar grant by the Korean Government.
By MWAJUMA JUMA, Tanzania Daily News
