Local football players and coaches in Kiambu are urgently calling on both the county and national governments to provide immediate access to Kirigiti International Stadium.
Football teams, ranging from youth clubs to adult leagues, have expressed growing frustration over the limited access to the stadium, arguing that the unused facility could be instrumental in developing football skills and providing a safe environment for training and matches.
“We have talented players who need a proper place to train and play. Kirigiti Stadium is the ideal venue, but we are facing numerous obstacles to accessing it. It’s disheartening to see such potential go to waste because we don’t have access to a good facility, and it’s been seven years now,” said Habil Okedas, Assistant Team Manager of Kirigiti Community FC.
Speaking to KNA, Marvin Waminja, coach of ACK Cathedral FC, highlighted the inadequate alternatives available.
“All football teams in Kiambu were directed to play and train at Kiambu Primary, which is not suitable for games. The ground isn’t suitable for players because they often get injured during games,” said Waminja.
Players echoed these concerns, stressing the difficulties they face without access to a proper venue.
“Without access to Kirigiti Stadium, we’re forced to use Kiambu Primary Field, which is not up to standard. This affects our performance and puts us at risk of injuries,” said Mary Wanjiku, a member of a local women’s team.
Residents of Kirigiti believe that opening the stadium would not only benefit athletes but also boost local morale and help deter youth from engaging in violent acts, drugs, and alcohol.
“We are urging local authorities to take swift action to make Kirigiti Stadium accessible to all. Our young men are slowly drifting to alcohol, and their talents go to waste,” said Jane Muhia, a Kirigiti resident.
Construction of Kirigiti Stadium began in November 2020, with the national government investing Sh 596 million.
The 16,000-seat capacity stadium is considered a state-of-the-art facility, being one of a kind in East Africa due to its construction using precast concrete technology.
Despite being declared 90 percent complete two and a half years ago, this premier facility remains inaccessible.
According to a news report by Pulse Sport, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) cleared the stadium for use after a comprehensive assessment by the FKF Venue Inspection Committee in August 2023.
This evaluation covered essential aspects such as pitch quality, spectator facilities, security arrangements, and adherence to FKF, CAF, and FIFA regulations. However, years later, the stadium is still yet to be opened to the athletes.
The community and the players now look to the authorities for prompt action to open Kirigiti Stadium, ensuring that local talent is given the opportunity to flourish.
By Sylvia Wanjohi
