Namwamba explains why Government halted construction of new stadia nationwide

Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba has explained the government's decision to halt the construction of new stadia nationwide.

This was after Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge sought clarification from CS Namwamba regarding the Ministry's decision to halt the construction of new stadia nationwide, questioning whether the action implied the suspension of ongoing stadium projects.

CS Namwamba while responding to the query explained that after the Kenya Kwanza administration took office, they recognized the severe inadequacy of the country’s sports and arts infrastructure.

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He however told the lawmakers that despite investing over Ksh10 billion in the sports and arts infrastructure sector, they observed that numerous projects across the counties remained unfinished and underutilized.

“This substantial investment had yielded minimal results, with little return on investment,” explained the CS, who added that the situation compelled the ministry to make a strategic decision to suspend the construction of stadia until a comprehensive master plan was formulated.

According to CS Namwamba, the master plan serves as a guiding framework for investments in stadiums and sports academies throughout the country. 

“The Masterplan prioritized the establishment of standardized and well-equipped sports facilities, ensuring that Kenya can successfully host regional, continental and international championships such as the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027 with confidence and efficiency,” added the CS.

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His sentiments come after Auditor General Nancy Gathungu exposed how various stadiums were inflated to surpass the earlier projected value.

The report flagged Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County, Wang'uru Stadium in Mwea, Jamhuri Grounds in Nairobi and the Jomo Kenyatta Showground in Kisumu.

She noted that Kirigiti Stadium was inflated by Ksh148 million, Wang'uru Stadium in Mwea, Kirinyaga County was increased by Ksh76.5 million and taxpayers lost Ksh57 million in the construction of the Jamhuri Posta grounds in Nairobi County.

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Other issues raised by MPs

Nominated MP Irene Mayaka asked the CS to elaborate on the policy framework guiding the provision of medical cover for sportspersons in the country and measures in place to ensure athletes are provided with medical coverage.

CS Namwamba revealed that the Sports Policy and Sports Act doesn’t have provision for medical cover for sportspeople but noted that they are reviewing the policies with a view of being responsive to the dynamics of the ever-changing sector.

“Our policy does not include provisions of medical cover for athletes. However, the ministry does not provide travel insurance cover, which encompasses various critical aspects for athletes and team officials representing the nation in international competitions,” he said.

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