GEO Pomona Waste Management football field has formally received a Fifa field certificate, confirming that its artificial surface is suitable to host sporting events.
The soccer field was built by Geo Pomona Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd as part of its corporate social responsibility, with the company transforming what used to be a smelly dumpsite into a world-class sports facility which is eligible for top flight league and national teams training.
The facility was inspected by Cemil Nadir Sahin from Kent Spor Ltd of Kiwa ISA Sport BV — an accredited laboratory test institute of Fifa — early this year, who certified that it meets the world football governing body’s turf quality standards.
Fifa president Gianni Infantino yesterday issued a “field certificate” confirming that the turf installed is suitable for use.
“Fifa is pleased to confirm that the football turf system Spine Turf S has been installed by Hatco Dokuma ve Tekstil Insaat ve Tic.Ltd.Sti at Geo Pomona Waste Management Football Field Harare (Zimbabwe). The installation has been tested and certified to the ‘Fifa quality programme for football turf — Fifa quality’ standard. Validity period is 02.04.2024 to 01.04.2027.”
The site, once known for spewing a heavy stench from rotten waste, has undergone a radical transformation under Geo Pomona’s waste-to-energy project.
The company invested in state-of-the-art waste management technologies and partnered with environmental experts to repurpose the site.
The result is not only a pristine sports facility boasting of a soccer field, basketball and tennis courts, but also a symbol of sound environmental stewardship.
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Geo Pomona Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd chief executive officer and executive chairman Dilesh Nguwaya said the Fifa certification was a success worth celebrating.
“As an inaugural initiative in 2024, we have constructed a state-of-the-art recreational facility consisting of a soccer field, two basketball courts, and two tennis courts,” he said.
The Harare businessman said plans were underway to construct a restaurant that would offer world-class culinary services.
This is part of promoting public health and wellness, he added, at a time when bad eating habits are on the rise, leading to chronic illnesses in communities.
“These facilities will be open to the public and this will help mainstream sport to the Pomona community and the rest of Harare. We anticipate that this sporting arm of the recreational facility will serve as a talent incubation centre for our youth, and will go a long way in supporting Zimbabwe’s anti-drug and substance abuse fight, as the youth will have a safe place to nurture their talent,” Nguwaya said.
He said Geo Pomona Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd was committed to providing a high-quality, durable and safe sporting environment.
“Therefore, I am hopeful that this is a first step in that direction and the dividends will be clear for all to see in the shortest of time,” he said.
The facility is expected to become a hub for sports activities, tournaments, and community events, fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents.
