The Ministry of Youth and Sports has announced that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has granted temporary approval for the Independence Stadium following an inspection conducted on Wednesday, 9th April 2025.

In a statement the ministry said it “is pleased to inform the general public that, following the inspection of the Independence Stadium held on Wednesday, 9th April 2025, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has granted temporary approval for the facility.”  

This approval allows The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) to host two crucial international fixtures on home soil, the second round of the CHAN 2024 Qualifiers between The Gambia and Algeria, as well as the first round of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers between The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire.

In an official letter dated 11th April 2025, CAF commended the significant improvements made to the stadium’s playing surface and confirmed its suitability for hosting the upcoming matches. 

However, CAF also highlighted the need for further enhancements and the installation of specific equipment for the stadium to attain full Category 3 certification.

By Ebrima KB Sonko