Wallis and Futuna‘s Stade de kafika undergoes Major Renovation
Mata-Utu, Wallis and Futuna – The Stade de Kafika, the heart of sports in Wallis and Futuna, is undergoing a major renovation project. Starting February 3rd, 2025, both the athletic track and the stadium itself will be closed for an eight-month period.
This extensive refurbishment, funded by a joint effort between the European Union and the French State, will see an investment of 950,000 euros (over 110 million Pacific francs). The project aims to modernize and improve the facilities,ensuring thay meet the needs of athletes and sports enthusiasts for years to come.
The closure will undoubtedly impact local sports clubs, including those dedicated to athletics, football, and rugby. Olivier Dinh, president of the territorial committee UGSEL, has assured the public that clubs are already making arrangements to adapt to the temporary closure, finding choice training locations and adjusting tournament schedules.
The Stade de Kafika, with it’s capacity of 1,500 spectators, is a vital community hub in mata-Utu, the capital city of Wallis and Futuna. The renovation project promises to enhance its role as a center for sports and recreation,fostering a healthier and more active lifestyle for the island nation’s residents.
Wallis and Futuna’s Stade de kafika: A Renovation for the future
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Jean-Pierre, thanks for joining us today. The Stade de Kafika renovation is generating a lot of buzz. Could you shed some light on the meaning of this project for Wallis and Futuna?
Jean-Pierre: Absolutely. the Stade de Kafika is more than just a stadium; it’s the beating heart of sports and recreation in Wallis and Futuna. Its renovation is a testament to the commitment of both the European Union and the French State to investing in the wellbeing and sporting future of this island nation.
Time.news Editor: I understand the stadium will be closed for eight months.What impact will this have on local sports clubs?
jean-Pierre: Naturally,the closure will present challenges. clubs dedicated to athletics, football, and rugby, among others, will need to adapt. thankfully, Olivier Dinh, president of the territorial committee UGSEL, assures us that clubs are proactively finding alternative training locations and adjusting tournament schedules.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of adjustments, what exactly will the renovation entail?
Jean-Pierre: The 950,000 euro investment will modernize the Stade de Kafika’s facilities, ensuring they meet the needs of athletes and sports enthusiasts for years to come. While specific details haven’t been publicly released, we can expect upgrades to the athletic track, seating, lighting, and possibly other amenities.
Time.news Editor: Beyond sports, how will this renovation benefit the wider community?
Jean-Pierre: The Stade de Kafika is a vital community hub in Mata-Utu. Its renovation promises to enhance its role as a center for sports and recreation, fostering a healthier and more active lifestyle for residents.
Time.news Editor: Any advice for readers interested in staying updated on the renovation’s progress?
Jean-Pierre: Keep an eye on local news outlets and the official websites of the territorial committee UGSEL and the Stade de Kafika.