Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has assured that the Kirigiti International Stadium will be ready to host training sessions for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) set for August this year.
During an inspection visit, Mvurya announced that construction work at the facility will resume next week, with completion expected within forty-five days. The stadium is among the designated training venues for the continental tournament.
“Most key sections, including the changing rooms, VVIP and VIP areas, canopies, and terraces, have been completed,” Mvurya said.
The CS, accompanied by Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum and Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi, acknowledged that delays in the stadium’s operationalization had been a concern. He stated that discussions with county leadership were held to address the issues hindering its completion.
Part of the pending payments to the contractor has already been disbursed, with the remainder set to be cleared next week.
“We have agreed that both Sports Kenya and the county government will gain access to the stadium and ensure it meets FIFA and Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards,” Mvurya added.
A team is expected to start landscaping and grass planting next week to meet quality standards, while access roads to the stadium will also be upgraded.
The CS further revealed that the government is exploring sustainable management strategies for stadiums across the country to support sports development.
Governor Wamatangi emphasized the economic benefits of the project, noting that it will create business opportunities for local traders once operational.
“This is an asset that will significantly benefit the people of Kiambu. Every event at the stadium will boost the local economy,” he stated.
The 16,000-seater facility, located in Kiambu town, is a historic site where Kenya’s founding president, Jomo Kenyatta, held his last rally before his detention.
The stadium will feature a VIP pavilion, two presidential holding rooms, a VIP holding room, kitchens, multiple washrooms, security-enhanced changing rooms, and storage areas. In the second phase of construction, volleyball and basketball courts will also be added, enhancing its capacity to host both national and international tournaments.
