ACTUALITE |
19.10.2004
A Welcome Initiative
The Yaounde Omnisport stadium, constructed in 1972 to host the African Cup of Nations, has depreciated tremendously as a result of age and poor maintenance. There is something to complain about in virtually all parts of the stadium. Gaping cracks on some parts of the edifice have rendered the structure weak. Some parts of the stadium have been turned into toilets to fill the vacuum that exist. Litter of human wastes is therefore a common sight in the "popular side" of the stadium. In the same light, the dressing rooms are also a mess and can hardly be used by athletes during competitions.
For the sports (football) nation that Cameroon is, this situation is disturbing. Cameroon cannot boost of a football stadium of international standing. The reunification stadium in Douala and the Garoua Rhoumji Adja stadiums are also in the same sorry state. Other large towns in the country are also in dire need of playgrounds.
Government has, however, been doing everything possible to seek a lasting solution to the problem of sports infrastructure in the country as a whole, and that of the Omnisport stadium in particular. Last year, the Government tried to give the Ominsport stadium a face lift. Some parts of the stadium, notably the turf and VIP lodge, were refurbished. However, the move was not enough as the stadium is still below international standards. The new turf is not resistant enough to withstand the numerous Division I football matches and International competitions.
The present offer by the German group, Osmo Drain, to work on the playground and the dressing room is therefore most welcome. The group proposes to put in place a turf that cannot be off-rooted during a match as the roots of the plants will be at least 15 metres deep into the ground as opposed to the present turf that is three centimetres depth. Watering will be by way of an underground water system thus the turf will be green through out the year.
Although the proposed rehabilitation will not completely resolve the problem of the Omnisport stadium, it will, at least bring the play ground to international standard. Matches can be played often without fear of turf degradation or muddy surface during heavy rains.
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