The construction of the Sh.800 million modern Mumbi Stadium has officially begun, signaling a major step of the National government’s plan to expand sports infrastructure and promote youth talent development.
Speaking during the ground-breaking ceremony, Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS), Salim Mvurya, confirmed that the 10-seater modern stadium, is set to occupy seven acres of land.
He emphasized that the facility which will be completed within a period of one year aligns with the government’s vision of strengthening sports development across the country.
Mvurya noted the government is committed to ensuring that the construction of the new stadium, directly benefits local residents, especially the youth of Murang’a.
According to the design, the facility will have a standard football pitch, an eight-lane running track with tartan, changing rooms, VIP pavilions and parking as well as holding rooms.
The modern stadium will also have auxiliary pitches for other sports, including volleyball, handball, basketball and netball in addition to other critical amenities that support the operationalization of such a stadium.
“We are constructing a modern stadium that will serve the young people of Murang’a and the entire region,” he said.
“All manual labour will be sourced from within Murang’a and its neighboring areas because this opportunity must go directly to Murang’a youth.” He added.
According to him, the purpose of the stadium is to nurture and grow local sporting talent while elevating Murang’a’s status as a regional sports hub.
Murang’a County, the CS revealed, is also slated to benefit with another 10,000-seater Gakoigo Stadium, 5,000-seater general Kago Stadium in Kangema and two sports academies in one in Miriira and the other in Kabati.
He called on the locals to support projects being implemented by the national government arguing the initiatives are meant to improve socio-economic welfare of the locals.
Sports Principal Secretary (PS), Elijah Mwangi, lauded the collaboration between the County and National governments, noting that the project represents a shared commitment to uplifting young people through sports.
“I thank the County government for allowing collaboration with the National government to establish the Stadium. It takes both levels of government working together to deliver such a facility,” he said.
Mwangi revealed that the National government has already awarded a one-year contract for the construction of the international-standard stadium and described it as a major opportunity for the county.
“This Stadium will attract people from all over the country who are coming for sports. The construction will also economically benefit people from Murang’a,” he noted.
The PS added that the County’s youth stand to gain from increased activity, employment and the long-term sporting programs that will follow the stadium’s completion.
Murang’a Governor, Irungu Kang’ata, welcomed the project and reaffirmed the commitment to prioritizing Murang’a residents for job opportunities during its construction.
He said the agreement between the County and the National government was clear and aimed at ensuring local residents enjoy the first share of benefits.
“We have agreed with the National government that those who will be employed in the construction will be from Murang’a,” Kang’ata said adding “This project must uplift our people socially and economically.”
Governor Kang’ata added that the County is prepared to support the stadium’s implementation, terming it a transformative investment that will not only boost sports, but also stimulate growth in businesses around the surrounding communities.
The leaders expressed optimism that the Mumbi Modern Stadium, will become a major Centre for sporting excellence in the region, create new economic activities, and position Murang’a as a host for high-profile sports events.
By Bernard Munyao
