Title: Uncertain launch of the sports season in Kalemie: a worrying situation for local clubs
Introduction :
The Kalemie Urban Football Agreement (EUFKAL) is preparing to launch the 2023-2024 season, but uncertainty reigns over where the matches will take place. Indeed, the Joseph Kabila stadium, the only stadium in the town of Kalemie, was closed for rehabilitation work and the other stadiums in the region are not usable. This situation puts clubs in a difficult situation and raises questions about the holding of the sports season.
Only one stadium available, but closed for work:
The Joseph Kabila stadium is the main stadium in the town of Kalemie, but it was closed by decision of the Minister of Sports, Kabulo Mwana Kabulo, for rehabilitation works. This closure took the leaders of the EUFKAL clubs by surprise, who found themselves without a place to play. Despite the ordinary general meetings held by eight of the twelve clubs, uncertainty remains as to the availability of the stadium.
The other stadiums in the region are not accessible:
Apart from the Joseph Kabila stadium, the town of Kalemie has other stadiums, but they are no longer usable for various reasons. The Sendwe stadium, once legendary, was partly washed away by the waters of Lake Tanganyika, making any sporting activity impossible. The SNCC and Benda grounds are also flooded during the rainy season, making them impassable.
The lack of alternatives for clubs:
Faced with this situation, EUFKAL clubs find themselves without alternatives for holding the sports season. The provincial Minister of Sports, Angèle Musange Tchomba, pledged to do her best to apply the measure to close the Joseph Kabila stadium, but did not specify whether alternative solutions will be offered to the clubs.
The future of the sports season in suspense:
EUFKAL president Ali Kamangu is concerned about the situation and is waiting for the four remaining clubs to hold their ordinary general meetings to discuss measures to save the sporting season. According to sports law, the urban championships must take place between August and May, which makes the uncertainty even more burdensome for football fans in Kalemie.
Conclusion :
The current situation in Kalemie, marked by the closure of the Joseph Kabila stadium and the absence of viable alternatives, jeopardizes the launch of the sports season. EUFKAL clubs hope to quickly find solutions to be able to play and satisfy the expectations of football fans in the region.