The Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Uasin Gishu County has been at the center of controversy following delayed construction works that have drawn criticism from various quarters, including government officials. The National Assembly Committee chairman on Sports, Dan Wanyama, recently expressed his disappointment during an inspection of the facility, calling attention to the dire state of the stadium and the mounting frustrations regarding the stalled project.
Wanyama, who conducted the inspection on Friday, did not mince words, stressing the urgency of completing the stadium’s construction. He highlighted the government’s failure to meet the initially set timelines, pointing out that the delays had led to the deterioration of the facility. “The timelines that are given must be met, and if that doesn’t happen, heads must roll because we cannot continue doing things this way,” he said. His remarks reflected the growing dissatisfaction with the ongoing delays and the lack of accountability from those responsible for overseeing the project.
The government’s failure to provide the necessary funds has been a significant reason for the delay in the stadium’s completion. Wanyama explained that the Ministry of Sports had promised to make a down payment to the contractor after raising complaints about the lack of financial resources. The committee’s role in overseeing the progress of the project has added pressure on the ministry to fulfill its commitments.
The delay in the stadium’s construction can also be attributed to the prioritization of other infrastructure projects, notably the renovations of Nyayo and Kasarani Stadiums in Nairobi. The government has directed significant resources towards these facilities, preparing them for major events, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament. These preparations have, however, resulted in the stalling of the Kipchoge Keino Stadium project.
The Kipchoge Keino Stadium has been under construction since 2017, but work has frequently come to a halt due to funding and logistical challenges. The stadium was initially designed to be a world-class facility that would host international sporting events, but with construction dragging on for years, its completion remains uncertain. The delays have sparked concerns not only about the state of the facility but also about the broader implications for sports development in the region.
The National Assembly Committee’s intervention comes as a call for action, urging those in charge to expedite the completion of the stadium. Wanyama emphasized that the government must honor its commitments, as the country’s sports infrastructure continues to lag behind, limiting opportunities for local athletes and hosting international competitions. While the Ministry of Sports has committed to injecting Ksh300 million to resume construction, the future of the project remains uncertain until the funds are fully allocated, and work begins again.
The delay in completing Kipchoge Keino Stadium serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing sports infrastructure development in Kenya. While other major stadiums like Nyayo and Kasarani have undergone extensive renovations, it is evident that the country’s sports sector still grapples with issues of funding, planning, and management. Wanyama’s demand for accountability reflects the growing frustration among lawmakers and sports enthusiasts, who are eager to see the stadium completed and utilized to its full potential.
If the necessary action is not taken promptly, there is a real possibility that the Kipchoge Keino Stadium may remain incomplete, further undermining Kenya’s reputation as a host of international sporting events. The next steps, therefore, will be crucial in determining whether the government can fulfill its promises and ensure the completion of this important infrastructure project.
