GOVT ANTICIPATES A BOOST OF MW’s ECONOMY THROUGH YOUTH GAMES

By Kenson McCloud 

Minister of Youth and Sports, Richard Chimwendo Banda, says the Region 5 Games provide an opportunity to boost the economy of the country through tourism.

Chimwendo made the remarks during the Government Face the Press Meeting on Tuesday  where he gave an update on the state of preparedness of the country ahead of the games which are scheduled for December.

Chimwendo said there are about  2500 delegates expected to come into the country, thereby bringing in direct forex in addition to revenue for the hospitality industry.

The minister also said there is also an opportunity for employment throughout the 14 period, although he was quick to point out that the jobs will be temporary.

Meanwhile, Chimwendo says there is steady progress in the construction and renovation of the sports facilities which are earmarked for the games.

Government allocated about MWK1.6 Billion  in the current National Budget for preliminary preparations of the tournament, but the total budget for the event is pegged at MWK13 Billion.