The former 400 m sensation, Isaac Makwala has claimed to be clueless about the progress made in the construction of the stadium in his home village of Tutume which is named after him, adding that he was never consulted about the project.
Construction of the project commenced in November 2021 and its first phase which consisted of a boundary wall and changing rooms is said to be complete. The project awaits funds for the next stage which will include construction of the sports field and an athletics track.
In an interview with Times Sport, Makwala revealed that those who were supposed to have consulted him on the project, both from government and the Tutume community have never done so.
He said the decision not to consult could only mean he has nothing to do with that stadium and therefore it was not important for him to be consulted about it.
“I don’t know anything about the progress of that stadium, let alone its location. I guess it’s none of my business,” he told this publication.
Makwala is also of the view that except that the facility is named after him, he will not benefit anything from it, except that residents of Tutume and surrounding areas will gain since its located in their area.
“I don’t like politics so that’s why I never complain or talk about that stadium, but I appreciate that the former President saw it fit that the stadium be named after me,” said Makwala.
In April this year, the Minister of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture, Tumiso Rakgare told parliament that through their partnership with Tutume District Council they have resolved the issues that affected the progress of the stadium revealing that both contractors have since resumed the works and are expected to complete its phase one before end of June 2023.
This was after the MP for Nkange Dr Never Tshabang asked the minister to update parliament about the progress made on the construction of the stadium. Tshabang had wanted to know if the minister is aware that there are delays in the construction of the stadium and if he is aware that the material used is substandard.
The project was previously delayed by disagreements among the residents on the location of the facility and its name, which have since been resolved.
