By Brian Wasili

Mwanza, February 11, Mana: Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda has said he is satisfied with progress and quality of the construction work of Mwanza Stadium, saying the facility will meet expectations of communities in the district.

Chimwendo Banda was speaking in an interview after visiting the site to appreciate progress of the construction work of the facility which is at over 80% completion as of Monday.

"Government is committed to continue facilitating various development activities across the country including Mwanza to benefit communities regardless of political affiliation and location," said Chimwendo Banda.

He said construction of Mwanza Stadium is part of the decentralisation programme so that local authorities are empowered through local revenue collection.

The 8,000 sitting capacity stadium which has cost government MK3.7 billion is expected to open in April this year.

In his remarks, Member of Parliament for Mwanza Central, Nicholas Dausi hailed government for constructing the stadium in the district, saying it has transformed the face of the district.

"As an entry point into the country, there was need for the district to have modern structures like this one," said Dausi.

Meanwhile, government has pledged to construct a modern market and bus terminal in the district.

In a separate interview, District Commissioner for Mwanza, Dr. Martha Magreta Sineta commended government for constructing the stadium, saying will help people in the district to do some small businesses during sporting activities; hence, improving their livelihoods.

"The revenue collected at the stadium will also boost local revenue that will empower the council to initiate some development projects that will benefit the community," said Sineta.