Salima Member of Parliament Launches Community Stadium Project to Boost Local Tourism

Malawi-Salima Central Constituency Member of Parliament Gerald Kapiseni Phiri has announced the start of work on the district's community stadium and described it as a large-scale development project that will support the growth of the local tourism industry by luring sports-loving tourists from around the globe, writes Alinafe Nyanda.

The stadium project will capitalize on the district's passion for sports by turning it into a major sports centre, according to Phiri.

Speaking during the construction launch on Saturday, Phiri encouraged communities to take part in transforming the community, saying the sport is an integral part of the district's culture as evidenced by the array of stars originating from Salima.

He said, "The erection of the new stadium in the lakeshore district will be a big relief for Salima-based TNM Super League outfit Mafco F.C and Chipiku central region association premier and division one and two teams like Airborne F.C, Amboya F.C, and Ngolowindo F.C, who spend a lot to fulfill their home fixtures at distant venues such as Dwangwa Ground and Civo Stadium."

Salima District Council Chair Chifundo Katoweka promised that the new stadium would become a reality as he disclosed that the first phase of the facility's construction will commence soon as the money for the project has already been secured. Apart from face-lifting the district, Katoweka said the facility will also help improve the council's cash flow.

"Its construction will boost our revenue collection through various sports activities that will be hosted at this venue," he said.

The structure has running tracks for athletes, VIP stands, and a provision for shops, among other features.

"When idle, young people engage in drug and substance abuse. We trust this stadium will make a difference," said one of the traditional authorities in the district, senior chief Kalonga.

The stadium construction has excited several stakeholders, including the youth, traditional leaders, and the sports fraternity at large in the district.

The development follows the government's recent release of funds for the exercise with support from GESD.

The Community Stadium project is set to transform Salima's tourism industry by attracting sports-loving visitors from around the world.

With the stadium set to become a major sports centre, it is expected to improve the local economy and provide opportunities for youth engagement in sports.