This archive report was first published on 28 June 2020.
After a delay of three years, Kinoru Stadium in Meru County is set to be completed next month. The stadium, which has a seating capacity of 25,000, was initiated by former governor Peter Munya but was later handed over to Sports Kenya for renovations.
However, the project has faced numerous interruptions, including delayed payments to contractors, rains, and other unforeseen factors. The construction of the stadium at Makutano, just after Meru town, has been suspended several times.
On June 27, 2020, Sports Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed visited the facility to inspect the project. She ordered the contractors to complete the project by July 15, 2020. The stadium is expected to cost approximately KSh 900 million.
CS Amina was accompanied by Governor Kiraitu Murungi, his deputy Titus Ntuchiu, Sports Director General Pius Meto, County Commissioner Allan Machar, and other officials. She told the contractors that they had no reason for not adhering to the set deadline, now that their dues have been settled.
The CS emphasized that the government is keen on having the venue ready within the stipulated time, as they plan to host some events at the stadium. She warned the contractors that they would have to work 24 hours a day if necessary to meet the deadline.
One of the contractors, Toddy Construction, had pleaded for an extension of 15 days, citing unfinished works, including electrical plumbing, that needed to be done. However, CS Amina and Meto were adamant that the contractors needed to work 24 hours a day and complete the project within 20 days.
CS Amina also stated that the reason they wanted the stadium completed soon is because they want to lay the tartan track in readiness for the planned events. She added that they want the tartan to attain international standards.
Football Kenya Federation's Upper Eastern Secretary General Ken Rungu expressed his excitement about the completion of the stadium, stating that it has been six years since the Munya administration started constructing the stadium. He noted that the stadium will be used by local teams, including those in Division Two.
Among the pending works are laying of a turf and having new grass on the pitch. The grass on the field was brought in when the stadium hosted Madaraka Day celebrations.
CS Amina tasked the county commissioner to keep an eye on the project, saying she will visit the stadium to receive the keys to the facility. Governor Kiraitu requested for President Uhuru Kenyatta to inaugurate the stadium when it's done.
