Heroes Stadium Races Against Time for Hichilema’s Inauguration

The clock is ticking at National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka as Government intensifies works to complete the facility ahead of President-elect Hakainde Hichilema’s inauguration. The stadium has become a hive of activity, with teams from the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts,…

The clock is ticking at National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka as Government intensifies works to complete the facility ahead of President-elect Hakainde Hichilema’s inauguration.

The stadium has become a hive of activity, with teams from the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Zambia National Service and Zambia Air Force working to ensure the facility is ready for the event.

So far, upgrades have been carried out to the VIP facilities, while carpeting, tiling, landscaping and plumbing works have also been completed.

Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe says the immediate focus is now on repairing damaged sections of the stadium roof.

Mr. Chileshe says the Zambia National Service will undertake the roof-panel repairs, while Government is engaging a Chinese company over the complete replacement of the roof as a long-term solution.

He says Government also plans to replace the tartan track in the future as part of broader efforts to improve the facility.

Mr. Chileshe described the works undertaken so far as impressive, saying the stadium has undergone an extensive facelift.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Director of Preventive Maintenance Services Steven Makungu says Government has channelled resources towards critical maintenance works to address vandalism and deterioration at the stadium.

Mr. Makungu says the works include the rehabilitation of ablution blocks and installation of new gates to secure key exits.

He says the Western VVIP Stand has also undergone electrical works, painting and refurbishment of VIP rooms.

The rooms are being equipped with new furniture and appliances.

Mr. Makungu says damaged sections of the roof are being addressed through temporary interventions as Government pursues a permanent solution.

And Zambia Air Force Director of Infrastructure, Planning and Designer Development Colonel Colins Chisenga says works have covered mechanical, structural, architectural and plumbing requirements.

Colonel Chisenga says painting is at an advanced stage, while renovations are progressing in both the upper and lower sections of the stadium.

He says damaged ceilings, tiles and glass have also been replaced.

Colonel Chisenga says the remaining works are on schedule and are expected to be completed by Sunday, August 23, in readiness for the inauguration.

The rehabilitation forms part of Government’s preparations to ensure that National Heroes Stadium is ready to host the presidential inauguration.