Nyamira seeks Treasury's help in completing stadium

Authorities in Nyamira County are now asking for support from the national government to complete the construction of the stalled Manga Stadium, more than five years since the project began.

The devolved unit, long accused of neglecting sports by underfunding projects meant to boost the sector, is now seeking to redeem itself by completing the main stadium in the county.

“As a county government we have tried our best, but surprisingly that stadium requires a lot of money which is beyond our capacity” said the county governor, John Nyagarama during the local leaders meeting with the president Uhuru Kenyatta in Kisii on Wednesday.

However, the president declined to talk about the matter saying he will tour the region later this year.

“We came here to launch medical machines at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH) and would not wish to talk something that is contrary to that," said the president.

Nevertheless, the president hinted that the national government was determined to ensure Gusii stadium in Kisii County is improved to meet Football Kenya Federation’s standards.

“I had promised (Kisii) governor James Ongwae last year that the national government was to take part in the contractions at Gusii Stadium something that I am determined to fulfil," he said.

In 2014, the county government of Nyamira announced major renovations and upgrades on Manga stadium and gave itself three years to have a complete facelift. It didn’t materialise and took two more years for officials to admit it may take longer and more money.

Initially, Sh64million had been set aside in the financial year 2014-2015 and another Sh73million in 2018-2019 budget to ensure its completion, but only a shoddy job has been done at the region’s main facility. At least only fencing and levelling had been done at the facility.

Locals have been demanding for a playing area that is to the standards of Kenyatta stadium in Machakos County, Bukhungu in Kakamega and Gusii stadium.

Nyanza south Football Kenya Federation (FKF) chairperson Yopesh Mose has since criticised the devolved unit for turning a blind eye to sports facilities in the county.

“I will raise the issue with the ministry of sports since the project is delaying sporting activities in the region," he said.

The region lacks teams in various sports with the county’s sports executive Bernard Osimo saying they will divert resources towards completion of premises at the Kiendege talent academy.

In this financial year, the sports docket had set aside Sh4million to construct dormitories for coaches and trainees being the only training centre in the region.