Sports enthusiasts in Kirinyaga have welcomed plans to upgrade General Kassam, play field in Kianyaga into a Stadium.
This will be an additional modern stadium to Kirinyaga County, which recently had a new stadium at Wangu’ru in Mwea Constituency.
The area Governor, Anne Waiguru, has asked the National Government for partnership to have the ground upgraded into a stadium to nurture and promote local talents.
The sport field is named after a renowned independence freedom fighter, General Kassam and is strategically located at the heart of Gichugu Constituency.
Governor Waiguru said the County would set aside Sh. 100 million for the upgrade, while the National Government tops-up the rest of the funds required to complete the project.
“This field is used by teams from the Gichugu Constituency and it has potential to host big matches once upgraded,” she added.
Local football coaches and players who use the field as their training ground said upgrading of the facility was long overdue and offers hope for upcoming sportsmen.
Kianyaga Football Club coach Patrick Njogu, said the planned upgrade is the best news for football players in Kirinyaga who will train in FIFA standard fields thus exposing them to the real world of football.
“We are happy for the lobbying to upgrade our sports fields. This is all we ask for as sportsmen, we will have an opportunity also to witness national teams play games here,” said Njogu.
Rwambiti Football Club Team Coach, John Kinyua, said the facility has the potential to host over 10,000 sport fans and its upgrade will encourage many youths to venture into sports.
“This field will assist many youth to engage in fruitful activities and help in reduction of drug abuse amongst the young people,” said Kinyua.
By Mutai Kipngetich
