Maragua residents have expressed optimism as construction of the Sh850 million Gakoigo Stadium progresses steadily, saying the project will transform the town and stimulate economic activity in the agriculturally rich area.
Residents said the 10,000-capacity facility would change the face of Maragua while creating opportunities for businesses, including hotels, shops, food vendors and transport operators.
James Mwangi, a boda boda rider at Ha Borithi stage, said the construction had already increased activity in the area, with workers and visitors supporting local businesses.
“When thousands of people come here for matches and other events, our hotels, shops, food vendors and transport operators will all benefit. We can already see changes as this area has become a beehive of activities as a result of the ongoing construction,” he said.
Mwangi added that the stadium would provide young people with a proper facility to nurture their sporting talents and keep them engaged in productive activities.
“Instead of our youth meeting in muguka joints and engaging in substance abuse all day, they will be going to the stadium to practice, train and compete positively, which will also improve our mental wellness greatly,” he said.
Businessman Kennedy Kimani, who owns a small eatery, said his business had already benefited from its proximity to the stadium, as construction workers sourced meals from the establishment.
“As construction progresses, my business improves as workers source meals from my eatery. With its completion, I am certain it will open up more opportunities for us in hospitality, vending and events management,” he said.
Kimani said increased sporting and social events would generate demand for food, accommodation, transport and other services, putting more money into the local economy.
Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi said the stadium would feature a standard football pitch, an eight-lane athletics track, modern changing rooms, a VVIP pavilion, ample parking and other facilities to enable it to host national and international sporting events.
He said the Gakoigo Stadium project was among several sports’ infrastructure developments being undertaken by the national government to expand access to modern sporting facilities across the 47 counties.
“We also have another 10,000-capacity Mumbi Modern Stadium being constructed in Murang’a Town, and both stadiums are expected to be completed by 2027,” the PS said.
Upon completion, the two stadiums are expected to boost sports development in Murang’a County by providing athletes with modern training and competition facilities while attracting regional and national tournaments.
The projects are also expected to stimulate economic activity in Maragua, Murang’a Town and neighbouring areas through increased demand for accommodation, food, transport, retail and event-related services.
By Florence Kinyua
