The construction of the Sh800 million Mumbi Modern Stadium in Murang’a town is steadily taking shape, with the contractor racing against time to complete critical earthworks before the onset of the long rains expected towards the end of March.
The project, which was officially launched in December last year by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, is scheduled to be completed in a period of one year.
Once finished, the 10,000-seater stadium is expected to significantly boost sports development and nurture local talent in Murang’a County and the larger central region.
Although the construction is still in its early stages, representatives of the contractor revealed that progress is on course with the project currently standing at about five per cent completion.
The contractor’s team is focusing on doing earthworks which they say must be finalized before heavy rains begin to avoid delays.
“We are working round the clock to ensure the earthworks are completed before the long rains set in,” said a representative of the contractor who requested anonymity.
“This phase is very critical to the overall timeline of the project. Other constructions can proceed even with rain,” he added.
Once completed, the Mumbi Modern Stadium will feature a standard football pitch and an eight-lane running track fitted with tartan thus meeting international standards.
The facility will also include modern changing rooms, holding rooms for teams and officials, a VIP pavilion and ample parking space.
In addition to football and athletics, the stadium will cater for other sporting disciplines.
Auxiliary pitches and courts will be constructed to support games such as volleyball, handball, basketball and netball, making the facility a multi-sport hub for the county.
The contractor noted that most of the manual labourers working at the site have been sourced locally, a move that is providing much needed employment opportunities for residents of Murang’a and its environs.
Local leaders and sports stakeholders have welcomed the project saying it will help identify and nurture young talent while also providing a modern venue for hosting regional and national competitions.
Apart from the Mumbi Modern Stadium, the national government has also announced plans to construct another stadium at Gakoigo grounds in the Maragua area.
The move is part of a broader strategy to improve sports infrastructure across the county and promote youth engagement through sports.
Once completed, the modern stadium and sports academies being constructed at Miriira and Kandara are expected to position Murang’a as a key sporting destination and offer athletes world-class facilities to train and compete.
By Bernard Munyao
