Ministry Says Activities Underway to Meet Standards of Stadiums Towards Hosting AFCON

Addis Ababa: As Ethiopia has set plan to host the 37th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2029, efforts are underway to ensure that the stadiums meet CAF standards, Culture and Sport Minister Shewit Shanka said.A foundation stone was laid today to build a multi-purpose stadium in Arba Minch city, South Ethiopia regional state.Recall that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that Ethiopia submitted application to host AFCON and the country is carrying out preparatory activities.The minister elaborated that preparation is underway based on the initiative given by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for Ethiopia to host the 37th AFCON by 2029.Having laid the cornerstone along with federal and regional authorities, preparatory activities will be carried out to ensure that stadiums meet the standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Shewit noted.To this end, efforts will be made to ensure that the multi-purpose stadium to be constructed in Arba Minch City meets the required standards and complete i t on schedule, according to the minister.Moreover, Shewit elaborated that the contribution of the stadium to the country's prosperity will be crucial by hosting various national, continental and international events and attracting sports tourism and stimulating business activity.The foundation stone for the construction of the multi-purpose stadium has an important role in revitalizing the development of sports in the region, she said.Shewit pledged that her ministry will provide the necessary support so that the construction of the stadium will be completed on schedule.Source: Ethiopian News Agency