Gambia sign contract to construct base for FIFA Arena pitches

The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) signed a one-month contract today with Balla Engineering Services to construct the subbase and the base for the FIFA Arena pitches to be installed at Latrikunda Sabiji and Bottrop schools, respectively.

The contract documents were signed by the GFF President, Mr. Lamin Kabba Bajo, and the Chief Executive Officer of Balla Engineering, Mr. Musa Camara, at a ceremony at the Football House.

The FIFA Arena Project is an initiative by the world football governing body aimed at creating small-sided football pitches (referred to as mini-pitches) to promote accessible, inclusive, and safe spaces for football available to communities worldwide.

FIFA has pledged 1,000 mini-pitches

Designed to support grassroots development, these modular arenas will provide opportunities for youth engagement, physical activity, and local football programs, aligning with FIFA’s goal of making football truly global. As part of this project, FIFA has pledged to build 1,000 mini-pitches around the world.

Balla Engineering will be responsible for the construction of the subbase and base, after which the manufacturing and supply of a perimeter fencing system (rebound boards, ball stop netting, and entrance gates) will be undertaken by a specialist fencing company appointed by FIFA.

The football world governing body will supply and install a synthetic turf playing surface, to be undertaken by a specialist turf manufacturer that is a member of the FIFA Quality Program for Football Turf.

Gambia FA boss welcomes initiative

Speaking at the signing ceremony, President Bajo congratulated Balla Engineering for winning the bid and encouraged them to ensure that standard work is delivered within the agreed scope of work.

He said the work involved three components: the GFF, FIFA, and the Government of The Gambia, through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MOBSE). He added the materials and turf have been in the country since November, waiting to be installed once the base work is completed.

Matarr Jobe, the GFF Project Liaison Officer, expressed optimism with the experience that Balla Engineering has gathered in such jobs, he does not doubt that they will deliver a good job within the specified time.

He referred to the Mini Stadium project they undertook on behalf of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Kiang Manduar, where they did a quality job and have since been issued their certificate of completion. He added that their tender documents were well-articulated and has no doubt that they’ll deliver a good job.

For his part, Musa Camara thanked the GFF for the opportunity to participate in the process. He promised to do the work to the best of his ability, to the required standard, and within the specified time.

The meeting was moderated by the General Secretary of the GFF, Lamin M. Jassey, who made similar remarks. It was attended by the fourth Vice President, Sainabou Cham, and senior staff of the GFF.