Sports

County to give Ruiru stadium facelift, says Kiambu Governor

Wednesday, June 7th, 2023 10:45 | By
County to give Ruiru stadium facelift, says Kiambu Governor
Part of the dilapitated Ruiru Stadium. PHOTO/Mathew Ndungu

Kiambu County is set to do major renovations to restore the glory of the currently dilapidated Ruiru Stadium that has seen football clubs cry foul over its poor state.

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi promised to improve the sorry state of the stadium that hosts clubs such like Zetech Sparks which features in the Kenya Women Premier League club.

Speaking when he made an impromptu visit to the stadium, Wamatangi promised that expansion, levelling the field to meet FIFA standards, recarpeting the worn-out astroturf, constructing modern drainage systems and spectator stands will commence with a view facilitating talent development and continuous engagement of the youths to keep them away from drugs.

“We are going to put up the best spectator stands to ensure that our people support the talents we have while enjoying the game in a good environment. We are also planning to purchase the derelict astroturf locally but if it’s not available we shall import,” said Wamatangi.

The county boss at the same time promised traders selling goods around the stadium that new, modern stalls would be erected for them, improvements he said are set to take the stadium to the next level.

The poor state of the pitch has had adverse impact on players including picking up injuries while travelling to other venues to honour their home matches has had an adverse effect on their finances.

The poor state of the facility has also taken a toll on FKF Division One club, Ruiru Hot Stars FC who have had to seek alternative venues.

Players and sports enthusiasts present during Wamatangi’s visit expressed optimism that with rehabilitation of the stadium, sports development will be enhanced in the constituency and beyond.

“The stadium has been in a very bad shape such that no player would wish to train here. Most people have been moving elsewhere despite this being their home ground,” Charles Onyango, a player said.

“We are happy that plans to start repairing our ground will begin. We have so many youths who have been training here but are currently engaged in malpractices since the field became an eyesore. We hope the county government will fast-track the process so that our youths can spend their time and energy here and not on drugs,” Kelvin Odhiambo, a local football coach said.

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