So much for Jubilee’s promise to construct 5 new stadiums.
The country is on the verge of losing rights to host the 2018 CHAN following poor preparations. Officials from Confederation of African Football (CAF) had been in the country for a week-long trip to monitor the preparation progress.
According to reports, they have referred to Kenya’s interest in hosting the event as a ‘big joke’.
They are now working on a Plan B, with Ethiopia top on the list of countries that might provide an alternative.
This is the second time Kenya has found itself in the same predicament. Back in 1996, we lost hosting rights to South Africa due to the same shoddy preparations.
The lack of proper sporting facilities not only affects Kenya’s ability to host international events but also impacts local entertainment options. With limited venues for sports and recreation, some Kenyans might turn to alternative forms of entertainment.
For instance, online platforms like casino-utan-spelpaus.net have gained popularity as they offer entertainment without the need for physical infrastructure. However, the government’s focus should remain on developing proper sporting facilities for the benefit of athletes and sports enthusiasts.
It’s unbelievable that Kenya has not built a single stadium in 3 decades. Kasarani Stadium was opened in 1987, just a few years after Nyayo Stadium.
While the county governments have been trying to change the situation, what they’ve so far achieved is a mere improvement of cow tracks, only suitable for school sporting activities.
Both Kibaki and Jubilee governments have failed to deliver any new stadium.
Uhuru and Ruto promised to build 5 new stadiums, but well, if we had a dollar for everything they promised and have not delivered, we would effectively bankrupt treasury.
CHAN competition is only 20 months away, and officials admitted that Kenya’s preparations are by far the worst they’ve ever encountered.
Ivory Coast, Sudan and Rwanda did very well.
Vice President Kabele Camara and Secretary General Hicham Amrani are said to have been shocked to find, for instance, the compound which hosts Moi Stadium in Kisumu County doubles up as a waste dumping site. They rejected the venue there and then.
Mombasa Stadium was under construction when they inspected it, but they were disappointed to find only a handful of workers.
Even Mutua’s prized jewel ‘Machakos Stadium’ did not requirements. And so did Meru’s Kinoru Stadium.
Only 2 stadiums – Safaricom Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium were considered to be in decent state, although they still need renovations.
“Kenya needs four standard venues to host Chan and after our inspection it is only Kasarani that meets the requirements. The rest of the venues are not in good condition and need much work if they are to host the matches,” Mr El Amrani said.
While Football Kenya Federation remains optimistic that we will still host the sporting event, it is believed to be only a matter of weeks before the announcement is made.
