### The disturbing degradation of the Katoka Youth Stadium: a hymn to the inadequacy between investment and maintenance
The Katoka Youth Stadium, emblematic sporting symbol of the city of Kananga, is today at the heart of concerns as a degraded infrastructure, despite renovations engaged in 2024. At first glance, the spectacle of the changing rooms in poor condition and a damaged fence presents itself as a simple misfortune linked to the wear of time. However, a more in-depth analysis reveals systemic issues on the management of sports infrastructure which goes far beyond simple negligence.
#### An incomplete renovation: a clumsiness that is expensive
The work carried out at the stadium, which notably affected the locker room, the fence and the playground approved by Linafoot, were not enough to preserve a space which, in theory, should be the lung of local football. Indeed, the figures show that many sports infrastructure, even when it is the subject of substantial investments, suffer from a short lifespan. According to a study by the Ministry of Sports, nearly 60 % of public sports infrastructure quickly became obsolete within three to five years which follow their renovation, a scourge which seems to be particularly the regions where the adequate maintenance is neglected.
#### An enlightening comparison: international issues
By comparing the situation of the Katoka youth stadium to other sports infrastructure in Africa, such as the friendship stadium in Cotonou in Benin or the Léopold Sédar Senghor stadium in Dakar, there is a recurring scheme: often cosmetic renovations that result in a long-term sub-performance. In these two examples, a holistic approach has been adopted, combining not only infrastructure spending, but also investment in preventive maintenance programs and training for stadium managers. Such an approach could be essential for the Katoka stage.
#### When the lack of vision is combined with political action
But what prevents such a vision in Kananga? The answer often lies in unrecious political management, where sports projects are often used as propaganda tools rather than real development engines. The decision -makers, frequently disconnected from realities in the field, lack a clear strategy to ensure not only the viability of existing infrastructure, but also their evolution according to international standards.
### a call for community engagement
Paradoxically, this degradation could also be an opportunity. The emerging criticisms of the inhabitants of Kananga around the state of the stadium can be transformed into a collective call for engagement. Why not consider a model that includes the community in stadium management? Involving local clubs and associations in the interview, security and even the organization of events could breathe new dynamism. This collaborative model, already tested in other countries, has shown convincing results, bringing together the feeling of belonging while guaranteeing more rigorous management of resources.
#### Conclusion: the future of the Katoka stadium in our hands
Faced with this worrying situation, it would be illusory to try to blame only the actors of the past. Katoka’s youth stadium is today a symbol of a system that requires a deep overhaul. While criticisms are fuse, it is imperative that decision -makers become aware of the need to act quickly, not only to restore installations, but also to create a lasting model that will ensure the viability of sports infrastructure over time.
In the intersection of sporting ambition and social responsibility, the stadium could resume its place of choice, but this will require a sincere political will as well as an active commitment from the whole community. The moment of action is now, and success will depend on everyone’s membership. Kananga’s eyes are riveted on this inflection point, and it is time for this community to rise not only to claim its rights, but also to collectively build the sporting future of the city.
*Désiré Rex Owamba/Fatshimetrie.org*