This archive report was first published on 9 September 2019.
Kenya's football league has kicked off to a promising start, with several teams showcasing high levels of competitiveness in the opening round of matches. However, the state of our stadiums is a major concern that could undermine the championship.
As I watched Bandari's opening match against Mathare United at Ruaraka ground in Nairobi, I was appalled by the stadium's condition. The venue is in a pathetic state and should not be used for any matches, let alone a league match of that magnitude.
It is unacceptable that Ruaraka ground, which is apparently home to Tusker, is the only stadium in Nairobi that can host a league match. This is a sad state of affairs, especially for a capital city.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) must put pressure on the Ministry of Sports to fast-track the renovation works at Nyayo and City stadiums. This will ensure that these stadiums are available for use and that clubs do not have to shuttle between Nairobi and Machakos to honour league matches.
Clubs have been inconvenienced by the lack of suitable stadiums, and the cost implications are significant, especially since our league lacks a sponsor. It is essential that we prioritize the safety of our players and provide them with suitable playing conditions.
Bandari are currently using MISC as their home venue while playing continental matches, and it would make sense for them to play their league matches at Kasarani venue for now.
It is high time the league governors accepted that ground condition is a risk factor in sports. Poor playing fields do little to improve the general standards of the sport nationally.
Let's come out in large numbers and cheer Bandari when they take on Ben Guerdane of Tunisia in the second round of the Caf Confederation cup match in Nairobi this weekend.
