This archive report was first published on 30 June 2020.
June 30, 2020 - The Ruringu Stadium in Nyeri, a project launched by President Uhuru Kenyatta in June 2017, has been plagued by delays. The stadium's construction stalled just moments after its launch due to nonpayment of the contractor by the government.
However, works resumed in May this year after the contractor signed a return to work agreement with the ministry of sports. The contractor, Sam Mwaniki, has now been given two months to complete the remaining works.
Speaking after touring the ongoing works, Nyeri County Commissioner Loyford Kibaara expressed frustration with the delay, saying, 'I want to know why this work is not complete, yet the government does not owe you a cent, tell us when you will be through and stop lying to us.'
According to Sports Kenya Director Mwangi Muthee, an officer will be deployed on the site to ensure that work is done day and night for the stadium to be complete in the given timeframe. Muthee stated that the contractor has agreed to complete a certain portion of work each week, which will be under the supervision of a works officer and officials from the County Commissioner's office.
Area MP Wambugu Ngunjiri emphasized the importance of completing the stadium, citing its historic significance and potential to spur sport tourism in the area.
