Frustrated by delays at the Kipchoge Keino Stadium, Principal Secretaries from the Ministries of Sports and Defence have warned the contractor to speed up renovations of the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, vowing to deploy military oversight and 24-hour shifts to ensure the Ksh1 billion project meets its 15-month completion deadline. 

This project holds significant importance, and the concerns raised underscore the necessity for expedited efforts to adhere to the stipulated completion timeline. 

Sports PS Elijah Mwangi’s direct expression of displeasure with the contractor highlights the urgency for accelerated progress.

The extensive renovation work, including demolition and structural reinforcement, necessitates a heightened commitment to efficiency. 

“The construction of the stadium is a significant project, and there is a need for accelerated progress to meet the expected completion timeline. The renovation involves massive work,” said Mwangi. 

The oversight of the Principal Secretaries will likely serve as a catalyst for ensuring both the timely completion and the quality of the stadium’s reconstruction, thereby fulfilling its intended purpose and meeting the requisite standards. 

Mwangi noted the removal of unsuitable structures and ongoing progress, though the overall tone suggests a need for significantly enhanced efforts. 

Renovation work involves substantial undertakings, including the demolition of existing structures and the erection of new supporting pillars. 

The PS highlighted the ambition to develop a stadium capable of hosting international events, akin to the standards set by Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums. 

He added they have inspected other stadiums in Kapsabet and Kamariny, which indicate ongoing progress. 

On his part, PS Defence Patrick Mariru noted the demolition of earth-based terraces to facilitate concrete construction. 

He also mentioned delays caused by pending lab tests, which are crucial for informing the construction of pillars and assessing the integrity of existing structures, particularly on the south and west sides of the facility undergoing renovation. 

The government has expressed its commitment to delivering a world-class stadium within the 15-month timeline initially provided to the contractor.

To ensure this, the possibility of round-the-clock work and the stationing of military personnel to oversee the project have been suggested.  

“The commitment of 15 months must be delivered. Either they work 24 hours a day and night, and also we are going to station some military here,” he added.