The National Assembly Committee on Sports and Culture has expressed satisfaction with the progress of the ongoing rehabilitation works at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Uasin Gishu County.
Led by Chairperson Dan Wanyama, the Committee that visited the facility on an inspection tour noted significant improvement at the facility compared to the previous visit, when concerns had been raised over slow progress and limited contractor presence on site.
The latest assessment, the committee members said, indicated that corrective measures taken in recent months were yielding visible results.
Speaking to journalists during the tour, Wanyama said the Committee had earlier issued an ultimatum to the Ministry to ensure visible progress.
He added that the current status reflects a positive turnaround and renewed commitment by all stakeholders involved in the project.
“We have come back today and can confirm that there is reasonable improvement. The work is ongoing and continuous, which is a clear indication that the project is now on the right track,” said Wanyama.
The Chairperson further disclosed that approximately Sh11 billion has been approved to facilitate completion of stadium projects across the country.
Members expressed confidence that the funds will be disbursed as planned to ensure timely delivery of all projects.
Wanyama reiterated the government’s commitment to leveraging sports as a tool for youth empowerment, noting that improved infrastructure will provide a platform for nurturing talent and creating economic opportunities.
“Talent pays. The government is focused on nurturing young people so that they can earn from their talents and improve their livelihoods,” he said.
“We have provided sufficient funding through the Sports Fund and the national budget. All stadium projects currently underway will be completed,” he assured.
The Committee also lauded the performance of the current contractor, Sinohydro Corporation, noting improved efficiency compared to the previous contractor. Members observed increased activity on site, better coordination, and adherence to construction timelines.
Addressing concerns over earlier delays, Wanyama attributed the setbacks to contractor inefficiencies, noting that corrective measures have since been implemented.
He maintained that there are no outstanding structural or administrative challenges affecting the project at present.
“There is no missing link. The delay was due to the contractor who was not performing. That mistake has been rectified, and the project is now progressing well,” he explained.
On his part, Sports Kenya Director General Timothy Kilimo said the contractor has been on site for over five months, with the project currently at 36 per cent completion.
He expressed optimism that the pace of work will be sustained going forward.
“Despite a few challenges, the works are progressing well. We are confident that, if all factors remain constant, the project will be completed by December 2026,” said Kilimo.
He noted that the upgraded stadium will have a seating capacity of 15,561, meeting Category 3 standards set by the Confederation of African Football, and will rank among the largest stadiums in the country upon completion.
Kilimo added that key facilities will include a modern football pitch, a running track, and upgraded turf. The design also incorporates a VVIP section on the western wing, as well as improved eastern and southern terraces, which are being converted from earth to concrete to enhance safety and comfort.
In addition to the main stadium, the project will feature auxiliary facilities such as a warm-up track and outdoor courts for volleyball and basketball, broadening its usability for multiple sports disciplines.
He further revealed that the government has already presented the stadium as a potential alternative venue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations to complement venues within Nairobi in case of overflow.
“We are preparing this facility to meet international standards so that it can host major continental events, including AFCON if need arises,” he said.
The upgrade of Kipchoge Keino Stadium forms part of the government’s broader plan to enhance sports infrastructure nationwide in readiness for international competitions, while also promoting grassroots talent development across the country.
By Fredrick Maritim and Ekuwam Sylvester
