By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)

The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has issued a strong appeal to the Chinese government and its embassy in Freetown to accelerate the rehabilitation of the national stadium, warning that the prolonged delay is creating mounting economic and sporting setbacks.

The Siaka Stevens Stadium, closed for renovation since February 2022, was initially slated for completion in 2024. However, the $40 million China-funded refurbishment has exceeded its original timeline, sparking growing frustration among football authorities and fans.

“We are calling on the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone that the stadium refurbishment has taken so long, and it is becoming unbearable,” Kamara said. He explained that hosting the Leone Stars’ home matches in neighbouring Liberia has placed a heavy financial burden on the state, costing an estimated $300,000 per match and depriving the team of vital home support.

“The three to four years to refurbish a stadium is too long. People build brand new stadiums in five years, “SLFA stated.