By: Fatou Krubally
Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Y. Badjie has expressed confidence that The Gambia’s national football team, the Scorpions, will host their September Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at the Independence Stadium, saying renovation works are at an advanced stage.
Speaking on Friday during the Mansa Kunda Ministerial Town Hall Meeting at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo, the minister said key concerns previously raised by football authorities had been addressed.
He acknowledged public concern over delays in the rehabilitation of the stadium but said the scope of work required had been greater than initially anticipated.
Badjie said the football pitch, which had earlier been flagged by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has now been fully renovated and inspected by a consultant who expressed satisfaction with the progress.
He added that attention has shifted to the athletics facilities, where old running tracks have been removed and replacement works are ongoing following additional funding approval.
According to him, the upgrades are intended to ensure the stadium serves multiple sporting disciplines beyond football.
“We are sure that we will play here in September,” he said.
The minister also highlighted broader government investments in youth and sports development, including training programs, coaching recruitment, and community sports infrastructure projects.
He noted that initiatives under the National Youth Service Scheme and graduate placement programs are aimed at expanding opportunities for young people.
Badjie further disclosed that the African Union Sports Council Games, initially scheduled to be hosted by The Gambia, have been postponed to October due to logistical and administrative reasons.
He reaffirmed government commitment to completing sports infrastructure projects, saying the investments will have long-term benefits for youth development and national sports performance.
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