Independence Stadium is a multi-purpose national stadium located in Bakau, West Africa, Gambia. The facility is used for football matches, athletics, concerts, political events, trade fairs, and national celebrations.

The stadium has a total seating capacity of approximately 20,000 and hosts matches for the Gambian national football team and teams such as Wallidan FC.

In 2019, CAF (Confederation of African Football) warned Gambia that Independence Stadium did not meet new stadium criteria.

Due to insufficient investment, the facility was banned by CAF in 2022 for international and continental club matches due to reasons such as the lack of an electronic scoreboard, lack of fixed seating, poor pitch quality, and inadequate medical facilities. As a result of this ban, the Gambian national team was forced to play its matches in Morocco for a period.

Project Objective

The outdated infrastructure of Independence Stadium was found to be inadequate, particularly in terms of matchday visual experience and electronic information displays meeting international standards. The LED scoreboard project was implemented with the aim of fulfilling the requirements under the CAF criteria and improving spectator & broadcast quality.

Implemented Solution – LED Scoreboard System

The LED scoreboard system, developed by idCodeX Technology Solutions, was designed, installed, and commissioned with the following features:

• High-resolution LED screens compliant with international standards

• Display of match score, time, team statistics, and visual content

• High-quality visual presentation for broadcasters and spectators

• Durable construction suitable for outdoor football facilities

Project Added Value

Compliance with CAF Criteria:

The lack of an electronic scoreboard has been addressed, and independent visual equipment has been strongly established, bringing the system closer to CAF standards.

Stadium & Broadcast Experience:

Clearer, professional visual content for spectators and broadcasters.

Professional Operation:

Matchday operational flexibility with a long-lasting, low-maintenance LED system structure.

idCodeX's Role

idCodeX Technology Solutions delivered the project as a sole solution partner, undertaking all processes throughout the project, including:

- Analysis and system design

- LED scoreboard solution and integration

- Installation and commissioning

- On-site training and technical support

CAF Gives Temporal Approval for Independence Stadium to Host International Matches

24 October 2024

The Gambia's Independence Stadium is ready to roar back to life as the Scorpions prepare to face Comoros in a high-stakes AFCON 2025 Qualifier following the temporal approval by Caf for the national stadium to host international matches.

After extensive renovations, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has given the green light to lift the temporary ban on the stadium in Bakau.