The multimillion-shilling Siaya stadium, whose construction kicked off six years ago, is set for completion within the next three months, area Governor James Orengo has said.
Speaking when he led a team of leaders in inspecting the on-going works, Orengo said the 20,000 capacity stadium will be one of the best sports facilities in the region, capable of hosting international soccer and athletic events.
“Our hope is that by mid-August, the stadium will be ready for use, and I want Otiende Amollo (Rarieda MP) and Senator Eddy Oketch to help persuade Bunge FC to come and grace the occasion by playing a curtain raiser for a match between Gor Mahia and a team we are trying to talk to, to come and participate in the opening ceremony,” said governor Orengo.
Speaking during the occasion, the Rarieda MP hailed the governor for reviving the construction of the sports facility that, he noted, had stalled for some time due to various procurement issues.
Otiende said that as the captain of Bunge FC, he will ensure that the team, together with another from within the East Africa region, graces the official opening ceremony.
“The works and fittings are impressive, and the pavilion is bigger than any other outside Kasarani Stadium,” he said.
Migori Senator Eddy Oketch said the project was a manifest of success stories of what devolution can achieve with full support from the government.
“As senators, we must fight for more money to come to the grassroots,” said Senator Oketch.
Kisumu Deputy Governor, Dr. Mathews Owili, said with AFCON preparations ongoing, he was certain that the completion of the Siaya Stadium will place it as one of the venues that will either host a match or even one of the teams for practices.
By Philip Onyango
