The Njukiri ASK show ground has been proposed for the construction of a new stadium that will host the 2023 Madaraka Day celebrations.
The new stadium is part of a sports complex that will be used for various sports across the county such as football, basketball and tennis, and will have a swimming pool, running track and other arenas with Moi Stadium in Embu scheduled for renovations.
Sports CS Ababu Namwamba expressed his disappointment with the awful state of the Moi Stadium in Embu, despite millions used in renovation.
The stadium alleged to have cost the taxpayer KShs 180 million in renovations lacks a proper drainage system as the stadium’s pitch is evidently dry with no grass and lacking an athletics tartan track.
“If you are sited somewhere saying you spent KShs 180 million so that our youth play in such conditions then shame on you”, he said.
CS Namwamba was accompanied by Embu Governor Cicily Mbarire and Sports Kenya Director Pius Metto on Wednesday 11th January 11, 2023, in an inspection of the two stadia in Embu County.
Sports Kenya has been tasked with the construction and renovations, expected to be complete in six months.
The Sports CS has ordered for an audit of all stadia across the country to ascertain money invested reflects reality on the ground saying there was no value for money in many stadia after it emerged that millions of funds channeled towards upgrading stadia may have been misappropriated.
“I have already written to the Auditor General to conduct as special audit on all funds used in stadia across the country. Those found culpable of misappropriating funds will be held accountable”, he said.
CS Namwamba restated the government’s plan to revive sports through the Talanta Hela Programme, that seeks to monetize talent, identify and support talented youth while enhancing the country’s economic development in partnership with corporate firms.
Cover Photo: Murimi Njiru
Comments