Nairobi: The National Assembly has approved enough funds to complete the construction of stadiums across the country. The Chairman of the National Assembly Committee on Sports and Culture, Dan Wanyama, who is also the Member of Parliament for Webuye West, said they now expect contractors to be on-site and complete the stadiums while asking county governments to settle pending bills.
According to Kenya News Agency, Wanyama noted that Kenya has already paid the hosting rights for the African Nations Championships (CHAN), which will be held in August this year, and is also preparing to host the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027. He emphasized that legislators will not allow the opportunity to host CHAN to slip away from Kenya, as it would also attract heavy penalties.
Wanyama stated that Kenyans are aware that in August and 2027, Kenya is set to host the CHAN and AFCON tournaments, and it is critical that the facilities meet international standards. He assured that the government is committed to ensuring all the stadiums under construction are completed and meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards to avoid future upgrades.
He was speaking during an inspection tour of the 24,000-seating-capacity Bukhungu Stadium and Malinya Stadium in Ikolomani Constituency. The MP expressed confidence that with the progress made on the scope of works, the contractor must complete the construction of Bukhungu Stadium by June 30th next year.
Wanyama encouraged the county government, which acts as the project manager, to ensure there is value for money and confirmed that the contractor has assured the completion of the project according to CAF standards.
Kakamega County Women Representative Elsie Muhanda urged the county government to clear pending bills owed to the contractor, amounting to Sh600 million. She expressed confidence that the stadium will be completed and will aid in nurturing talent among residents of the western region.