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Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Ababu Namwamba led the groundbreaking session at Bukhungu Stadium.

The stadium is being built in collaboration with the county government of Kakamega to elevate it to international status.

Ababu on Bukhungu

Ababu spoke of the importance of the venue in the country’s sports ecosystem, stating, “This stadium is very important in the general ecosystem of sports in the country. We have seen the incredible potential that this stadium bears in hosting significant events.”

He assured sports lovers of a stadium boasting a smooth and level playing surface with up-to-standard artificial turf, accompanied by a proper drainage system and four well-accessorized and easily accessible dressing rooms.

“We promise you a stadium boasting a smooth & level playing surface with up to standard artificial turf, accompanied by a proper drainage system to avoid flooding. There will be four well-accessorised and easily accessible dressing rooms,” CS Ababu observed.

Principal Secretary Peter Tum stressed the need for meticulous planning and execution to meet the rigorous requirements for hosting key events.

“For Bukhungu to get CAF’s green light, it should be rated at category four by the African football governing body. We are going to provide all the necessary support to guarantee that these standards are met,” he pointed out.

In Bungoma, the CS and his team oversaw the handing over exercise for Kanduyi Stadium ahead of extensive rehabilitation efforts aimed at revitalizing the stadium for hosting this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations.

The envisioned revamping includes a 2000-seat VIP pavilion, 3000-seater spectators terraces, modern amenities such as changing rooms, lockers, offices for sports officials and coaches, ancillary staff facilities, public washrooms, medical centers, and a VIP lounge.

Ababu’s comments

Commenting on the changes, Ababu said, “These enhancements signal a departure from the cramped conditions of the past, ensuring optimal comfort and functionality for all stakeholders. We are building a legacy worthy of emulating.”

He also emphasized the importance of fostering a conducive environment for nurturing talents, citing Bungoma County’s rich sporting heritage exemplified by luminaries such as Olympic medalist Ben Jipcho and world champion Linet Masai.