The government has allocated Sh900 million for the construction of the modern Gakoigo stadium at the Samar area, Murang’a, in a move aimed at accelerating the development of sports and nurturing talent in the region.
Principal Secretary for the State Department for Sports, Elijah Mwangi, has noted that the facility is expected to be completed within nine months and will play a central role in reviving sporting activities in Murang’a County and its environs.
He observed that the project is part of the government’s broader plan to invest in sports infrastructure and provide young people with opportunities to develop and showcase their talents.
The PS spoke at Samar village during the official handover of the stadium site to the contractor, marking the commencement of construction works.
He expressed confidence that the project will usher in a new era for sports in the county.
“This facility is now with the contractor. Within one year, this stadium will be operational and give a new dawn for sports in Murang’a County,” he remarked.
Mwangi added that beyond sports development, the project is expected to boost the local economy through the creation of employment opportunities and increased demand for construction materials and related services.
Local businesses are also likely to benefit from the influx of workers and activities during the construction period.
The site handover ceremony was presided over by Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome, alongside Nominated Senator Veronica Maina and Maragua MP Mary Wamaua, among other national and county government leaders.
The leaders lauded the project, terming it a significant milestone in improving infrastructure in the region.
Once complete, Gakoigo stadium will feature a standard FIFA-compliant football pitch, an eight-lane athletics track, a VIP pavilion, modern terraces, changing rooms and state-of-the-art spectator stands.
The facility is expected to meet international standards, enabling it to host major sporting events and competitions.
Mwangi emphasised that the construction of the stadium is among the government’s key infrastructural priorities aimed at supporting the growth of sports across the country.
He noted that Murang’a has great potential in producing talented athletes and players; hence, the need for proper facilities to nurture and develop that potential.
He further clarified that the initially proposed site for the stadium at Gakoigo grounds was found unsuitable following a comprehensive technical evaluation by sports department officials.
The assessment cited limitations such as inadequate land size, poor ground orientation and an unfavourable gradient.
However, the PS assured residents that the existing ground will not be abandoned; instead, it will be renovated and upgraded to serve as a training facility and host middle-tier competitions in the region.
“The old ground will be rehabilitated and be used as a training ground for teams. The facility will also have the capacity to host middle-tier competitions for teams and tournaments in the region,” he explained.
The new stadium is expected to not only uplift sports standards but also inspire a new generation of athletes, positioning Murang’a as a key hub for sports development in the country.
By Bernard Munyao
