The renovation works at Kasarani and Nyayo Stadia are progressing rapidly, with just 12 days remaining before the Confederation of African Football (CAF) deadline on December 31.
The two facilities have been largely inaccessible throughout the year, with Kasarani closed for the entire period and Nyayo shut down since August. These closures are part of efforts to prepare the stadia for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) scheduled to kick off on February 1, 2025.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen conducted an inspection of the facilities on Thursday, December 19, 2024, sharing updates through photos that showcased progress at Kasarani, Nyayo, and the Kasarani Annex.
From the photos, the Kasarani changing rooms appear complete and ready for use, while significant progress has been made on the playing field. However, work on the spectator seating areas seems far from finished, although seat installation has begun.
One of the critical CAF requirements, the installation of a new canopy, has started but appears to cover only the VIP section. Murkomen previously stated that the remaining sections of the canopy would be addressed after the CHAN tournament.
Lighting is another major requirement by CAF that still seems incomplete. The Sports CS had earlier disclosed challenges in transporting the lighting system. However, he confirmed that the government opted to airlift the equipment, which is expected to arrive in Kenya by Christmas Day.
The inspection by Murkomen comes ahead of a visit by CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, who is set to assess Kenya’s readiness to host the continental tournament. Motsepe, who was in Tanzania on December 19, is expected to arrive in Kenya on Friday morning before proceeding to Uganda later in the day for a similar inspection.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the government and CAF to determine whether Kenya’s preparations will meet the required standards for the prestigious event.
Photos Courtesy of Kipchumba Murkomen
