Construction works of the long awaited ultra modern stadium in Ndola has commenced with the Chinese contractor, Anhui Foreign Economic Construction Company, AFECC, assuring government that it will produce quality work at the site.
A Check at the stadium site yesterday found Chinese engineers and some government engineers carrying out some preliminary surveys.
Speaking in an interview with AFECC vice president, Hua Cheng Long, said the site is good and his group will do a good job.
Meanwhile, the Zambian government has handed over the stadium site to the Chinese contractor for them to begin the construction works expected to be completed in 26 months at a cost of US$65 million.
The construction of the over 40,000 seater stadium has been funded through a concession loan from the Chinese government to the people of Zambia.
Speaking when he handed over the certificates of duration of works and site possession to the contractor, Copperbelt Permanent Secretary, Villie Lombanya, thanked the Chinese contractor for finally commencing the construction works after the projected commencement stalled for a long time.
Mr. Lombanya said the Zambian people have anxiously waited for the commencement of the project and are glad that it has now commenced.
He urged Zambians, who will be recruited to work with the Chinese constructor, to work hard and emulate the Chinese hardworking culture.
He warned Zambian casual workers against the habit of absconding from work or pretend to be sick after being paid.
And AFECC vice president, Hua Cheng Long, said the good cooperation from the Zambian people will enhance success in the construction of the stadium.
He said his team was determined to work hard to accord Zambians to enjoy watching their beloved games from a comfortable stadium.
He wished the Zambian National Football Team well in their campaign for the 2010 World Cup qualifier in South Africa.
And Ministry of Sports, Youth and Child Development Director of Buildings, Whyteson Ngulube, who witnessed the site handover ceremony expressed happiness at the commencement of the stadium construction works.
ZANIS