The Nairobi County Government has set aside Sh700 million for renovation of five football grounds in the capital city.

Kihumbu-Ini, Riruta, Dandora, Ziwani and Woodley grounds have been earmarked for a major face-lift, which will see the laying of an artificial turf, gym facilities, changing rooms, terraces among other amenities to meet international standards.

Speaking after inspecting one of the five proposed grounds in Kangemi Thursday, Nairobi County’s Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Janet Ouko, said construction at Kihumbu-Ini in Westlands and Dandora in Eastlands will kick off simultaneously.

She said the ground-breaking ceremony for the two grounds will take place on May 14 to pave way for the refurbishment exercise to start immediately.

“We want to develop sports activities and ensure youngsters in this county have an opportunity to showcase their talent.

“Most of these estate stadiums have produced stars who played for big clubs, including the national teams,” she said.

Ouko added that the Nairobi City Stadium will also get a major facelift.

“It is sad that Nairobi-based teams are shifting their home matches to neighbouring counties, but now with the newly constructed stadiums, football will be closer to the fans,” she added. Also present was the area MCA Paul Shem Shilaho of Kangemi Ward and Extreme Sports Co-ordinator Athanus Obango.

“This is a dream come true for the community around,” said Shilaho.

He added: “Now we are happy that we will have more teams enjoying the facility that has been in a deplorable condition for long.”

Several counties have embarked on building sports facilities for their residents including Mombasa that has so far built two artificial surface grounds.

 

Source: nation.co.ke

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