By: Thomas Kojo Roulhac
Monrovia, Liberia- Following a revealing report published by DN News on Monday, December 2, 2024 about the neglected state of the Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has taken swift action to clean the front of the iconic stadium.
The report highlighted how the once-proud monument of Liberian sports had fallen into disarray, with weeds and garbage overtaking the area, symbolizing a broader issue of overlooked infrastructure.
The SKD Sports Complex, which was once the hub of exhilarating football matches, vibrant concerts, and national celebrations, had become nearly unrecognizable due to the rampant overgrowth and accumulated trash.
This situation prompted the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Paynesville City Corporation (PCC) and the Ministry of Public Works to step in and restore the facility.
In response to the report, a team from the Ministry of Public Works and the Paynesville City Cooperation (PCC) were dispatched to clear the overgrown weeds and remove the piled-up garbage, rejuvenating the area around the stadium.
This cleanup effort not only aims to bring back the former glory of the SKD Sports Complex but also to set a precedent for the maintenance and care of public facilities across Liberia.
Speaking with journalists, Youth and Sports Minister Cllr. Jeror Cole Bangalu acknowledged the need for regular upkeep and has committed to implementing more rigorous maintenance schedules to prevent such neglect in the future.
He at the same-time called on the Liberia Football Association ( LFA) and residents of the SKD community to help keeping in the facility clean.
“The LFA and community members are part of this situation so they should join us in keeping the place clean” he stated.
Meaning, community members and sports enthusiasts have expressed their appreciation for the swift response and look forward to seeing the stadium once again become a central venue for sports and entertainment.
This proactive move by the Ministry of Youth and Sports serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving national landmarks and ensuring they remain vibrant and functional for future generations.
