Great Expectations: Can a Newly Renovated National Stadium Transform the Sports Sector?

By: Alphina Johnson

When the National Stadium closed to the public due to renovation in 2019, athletes and fans alike prepared to adapt to a difficult and unpleasant new normal. Events that would have drawn thousands of fans to the main bowl would have to be relocated to other venues and athletes from various sporting disciplines would have to find somewhere else to train. The tradeoff though, would be that by the end of the renovation period, the National Stadium would get a desperately needed facelift. The algae-ridden swimming pool, the barely functional basketball court and sub-standard hostel area are just some of the facilities to receive a world-class upgrade.

A boost beyond the feild

However, as the renovation efforts have dragged years past the deadline, there has been mounting frustration, with the expression “white elephant project” mentioned more than a few times. Updating the public via an interview on Radio Democracy 98.1, Sports Minister Augusta James – Teima noted that a major reason for the delay was the installation of seats in the main bowl, which are required to meet FIFA standards for hosting matches. Meanwhile, athletes have no choice but to continue to make do with places like the Lumley Beach roundabout for their training needs.

Athletes resorted to training at the Lumley Beach

But, after such a long wait, what can the sports sector look forward to once the renovation project is completed? Forty years after its construction in 1979 by the Chinese government, the stadium was plagued by dilapidated facilities, crumbling infrastructure, and unreliable pitches, which hampered the growth of local sports and limited the country’s ability to host international events.

Now, after years of work, the General Manager of the National Stadium Paul Damulay affirms that a number of exciting advancements have been completed. These include a brand new football practice field with modern artificial turf, a dam to ensure the stadium has its very own water supply, fully upgraded hostels, an overhauled basketball court and an algae-free swimming pool, among many other improvements.

A new era begins!

These improvements are expected to ignite a new era for Sierra Leonean sports and stimulate economic growth across the nation – to position Sierra Leone as a vibrant hub for regional and international sporting events.

The transformation of the national stadium is anticipated to have far-reaching economic impacts:

Sports Tourism: An upgraded stadium capable of hosting international competitions will attract tourists, visiting teams, and media coverage, generating revenue for local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and transport services.

Job Creation: Construction, maintenance, and event management related to the new stadium will create numerous jobs, stimulating economic activity.

Local Business Growth: Vendors, merchandise outlets, and hospitality services around the stadium area will benefit from increased patronage during tournaments and events.

Promotion of Sports and Talent Development: Enhanced facilities will nurture local athletes, potentially leading to international success and financial gains through player transfers and sponsorships.

Upon completion, the renovated stadium is expected to position Sierra Leone as a serious contender in hosting regional and international sporting events. The improved infrastructure will foster a vibrant sports culture, inspire young athletes, and help energize the nation’s economy.