Heroes Stadium Works Near Completion Ahead of Inauguration

Preparations for President Hakainde Hichilema's inauguration are in full swing at the National Heroes Stadium, with final touches expected to be completed by Friday.

Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Principal Public Relations Officer Bobby Ng'andu said the Government was satisfied with the progress of works, following an inspection led by Deputy Secretary to Cabinet for Administration Dr Oliver Kalabo and Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe. "The works are ongoing, and I think they are happy with what they have seen. By Friday, we should know that this facility is ready," he said.

Mr Ng'andu revealed that measures were also being put in place to protect the venue during the ceremony, including a turf protector being brought in from South Africa to safeguard the pitch.

During the inspection, the officials toured various sections of the stadium, including VIP facilities, washrooms, the Presidential holding room and the area designated for the main stage, to assess progress and ensure preparations remained on track.

The rehabilitation is being carried out through a multi-sectoral approach involving the Ministries of Youth, Sport and Arts and of Infrastructure, alongside the Zambia National Service and Zambia Air Force. Works have included carpeting, tiling, plumbing, painting, electrical repairs and the refurbishment of the Western VVIP Stand, while damaged sections of the roof have been repaired ahead of a planned full replacement.

The date of the inauguration is still to be confirmed