FIFA gives Malawi stadium approval to host 2010 WC qualifiers

The world football governing body FIFA has finally given the giant Kamuzu Stadium of Malawi its seal of approval to host the 2010 World Cup and Africa Nations Cup qualifying matches.

The upshot followed a visit by FIFA inspector Frank Valdermaca who declared it fit last week after inspection, website of The Nation newspaper of Malawi reported Wednesday.

Chief executive officer of the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) Yasin Osman confirmed the development describing it as "good news". "We have every reason to smile because this time around FIFA is so strict as regards the state of stadium." Vadermaca inspected the stadium last week and was quite impressed with the progress on the rehabilitation work. But he also pointed out that there is need to complete the remaining work (in good time)," said Osman.

Vadermaca confirmed in a telephone interview having been impressed with the progress of renovations being at the stadium."Except for a few areas, I think government has met most of the requirements -- the construction of a brick fence is in process; the stands have been painted; and a room which will cater for FIFA bureau has been allocated," Vadermaca said.

FIFA recently wrote all its member associations, including FAM, to finalize rehabilitation works of major stadium that were recommended to host 2010 World Cup qualifiers or else they would be declared unfit to stage the global showcase's qualifying matches.

Director of Sports in the Ministry of Sports Justin Saidi boasted Tuesday that he expected FIFA to give its seal of approval because most of the work has been done "We are also in the process of erecting the tunnel and numbering the seats," said Saidi. He said the renovations are expected to be completed at the end of the year at an estimated cost of 130 million (nearly US$1 million).