Mumias Complex barred from hosting KPL matches

What you need to know:

  • Senelwa added that Bukhungu stadium would be their home ground number one, with Moi stadium in Kisumu an alternative.
  • “We will endeavour to ensure that the custodian of Mumias Sports Complex, which is Mumias Sugar Company Limited rectifies the anomalies pointed out in the letter, before it is used by the club to host KPL matches," he said.

Mumias Sports Complex will not host any 2018/2019 SportPesa Premier League matches.

The KPL Head of Technical Services, Safety and Security GMT Ottieno has consequently advised KPL team Vihiga United, which uses the facility as its first choice home ground, to look for an alternative venue for their home matches this season.

In a letter addressed to Vihiga United CEO Michael Senelwa, Ottieno said they found the ground to be in a state of neglect on their visit on November 20.

Ottieno noted that the stadium has overgrown grass, the playing surface is infested with ant hills, the goal posts have faded paint, players changing rooms are untidy with no running water, while the outer perimeter wall that is made of iron sheets is insecure.

In the meantime, Ottieno gave recommendations that should be undertaken at the stadium upon which it will be inspected again for possible usage by any KPL club.

He directed that the anthill on the playing ground be attended to using appropriate chemicals and that the overgrown grass all over the facility and in particular the playing field, be mowed to forestall possible snake bites.

The official further recommended that wash rooms must be kept clean and habitable to players with constant running water in the taps.

In a prompt reply to Ottieno, the Vihiga United CEO Micheal Senelwa said the management of the club had resolved to move from Mumias Sports Complex to Bukhungu stadium in Kakamega with immediate effect.

Senelwa added that Bukhungu stadium would be their home ground number one, with Moi stadium in Kisumu an alternative.

“We will endeavour to ensure that the custodian of Mumias Sports Complex, which is Mumias Sugar Company Limited rectifies the anomalies pointed out in the letter, before it is used by the club to host KPL matches," he said.

Senelwa added that Vihiga United's opening match against Ulinzi Stars slated for Mumias Sports Complex this Sunday has been moved to Bukhungu stadium.

When contacted by Nation Sport, the Mumias Sports Complex Manager Patrick Mugata refused to comment on the matter saying that it is only the Company CEO Patrick Chebosi who is allowed to talk to the press.

Efforts to reach Chebosi were futile.