Guinea investigates $250 million stadium renovation costs

Investigations are underway in Guinea regarding the renovation of the 28 Septembre and General Lansana Conté (GLC) de Nongo stadiums. Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Kéamou Bogola Haba, is being questioned as part of an inquiry into the management of these projects.

Questions have been raised concerning the total cost of the renovations, which is estimated at approximately $250 million. Current Sports Minister Mamadou Cellou Baldé has defended the expenditure, noting that international infrastructure costs are indexed to global market rates rather than the local Guinean franc.

Specific points of contention include the decision to use natural grass at the 28 Septembre stadium and allegations regarding budget increases within the department. Former Minister Haba has provided context for the costs, stating that the Nongo complex requires roughly $120 million for completion, while the 28 Septembre stadium works are estimated at $130 million.