FreedomNews | Thomas Kojo Rouhlac
Monrovia – The Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex, a significant symbol of Liberian sports, has experienced notable neglect. Once a vibrant venue for football matches and concerts, the complex faces overgrown weeds, vines, and accumulated garbage. The murals, which once brightened the facility, are obscured by grime and decay. The roads, formerly bustling with fans, are now lined with tall weeds.
Football fans and community members are expressing concerns over the deteriorating conditions and the associated health risks due to the accumulation of trash. Morris Johnson, a 32-year-old sports enthusiast, commented, “It’s disappointing to see the stadium in this condition. The unpleasant smell and overgrown weeds make it difficult to enjoy the games.”
Public health experts have noted the potential health hazards from open garbage dumps, which can emit toxic gases and attract pests. This poses risks to those living or working nearby. Residents of the SKD community, relying on the same roads leading to the stadium, have found the situation increasingly challenging.
Vivian Day-you-gar, a food vendor near the stadium during international games, expressed her frustration. “The stench, overgrown grass, rats, and flies affect our customers. We’re tired of this dirt, and it’s affecting our health,” she said. Day-you-gar called on the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MYS) to address the stadium’s interior and exterior.
Day-you-gar pointed out that the garbage and weeds had reached the height of the SKD fence. “The last time the MYS cleaned outside was during the 2023/2024 National County Sports Meet. They only gathered the trash without removing it,” she said. She urged authorities to relocate the garbage site near the fence due to the increasing health risks.
Henry B. Yonton Jr., Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, declined to comment when approached at the SKD Practice Pitch. He stated, “Are you a journalist? What’s the issue with the SKD? I will speak at the appropriate time,” before leaving.
Despite the challenges, the community remains hopeful for the improvement and restoration of the SKD Sports Complex. Concerns have also been raised regarding budget allocations for stadium maintenance. In addition to the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ annual budget, an extra US$10,000 is reportedly allocated for maintenance during each Senior National Team game. However, during Liberia’s recent 2-1 defeat to Equatorial Guinea, fans found the bathrooms at the complex lacking basic toiletries.
