Construction works at the Umuganda Stadium in Rubavu are close to completion ahead of the upcoming 2016 African Nations Championship (CHAN) scheduled for January 16-February 7.

The CHAN Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has set the November 30 deadline for the venue to be ready for CHAN. Work on the artificial turf is already complete as well as the dressing rooms for four teams, a training ground as well as the VVIP, VIP and media sections.

Installation of the floodlights and scoreboard at the 5, 000-seater stadium that overlooks Mount Rubavu is expected to be complete by November 13.

During a site visit of Umuganda Stadium yesterday, the Rwanda Housing Authority Head of Housing Project and Development Department, Eric Serubibi told journalists that, “Our partners told us that the floodlights are about to reach Mombasa and we expect them to be at the stadium by November 15. There was a slight delay due to unexpected circumstances.”

The LOC chairman also president of the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) Vincent Degaule Nzamwita revealed that the Umuganda Stadium will be host to Pool D while Amahoro Stadium will be the venue that will host Rwanda’s Amavubi Stars.

Pool B will play their group matches at the Huye Stadium while the Kigali Regional Stadium will host Pool C.

According to the Mayor of Rubavu, Jeremie Sinamenye, Rubavu is ready to host a tournament of this caliber having hosted several games during the two continental tournaments hosted by Rwanda in the near past including the 2011 African U-17 Championship and the 2009 U-20 African Youth Championship.

“We have already informed residents of Rubavu to prepare to receive many visitors especially people in the service sector should use this opportunity to their advantage,” explained Serubibi.

He also emphasized that the people of Rubavu will be given opportunities to serve during CHAN including in the capacity of protocol and volunteers rather than hire or recruit people from Kigali. He added that, “We are excited that we shall host many guests in Rubavu and that our city will become popular outside the country.”

Nzamwita also revealed that Serena Rubavu Hotel will host CAF officials while Stipp Hotel will host two teams while Gorilla and Belvedere hotels will host one team each.

Additional reporting and Photo by Times