Nairobi county has put forth plans to refurbish the facelifts of Woodley and Joe Kadenge, formerly City Stadium to internationally accepted standards as the county improves its bid to host Africa Cup of Nation, 2027.
The Ksh600M county government’s project will see talents, especially in sports and the creative economy within the county improved.
Speaking during the groundbreaking for the renovation exercise, Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson said that the two stadia will be revamped and upgraded to meet the international stadium’s disciplines.
“At a cost of ksh600M, Joe Kadenge ground will have a new look and attractive which will be fitted with modern equipment such as artificial turf, underground drainage, modern goal posts, and changing rooms among others,” said Governor Sakaja.
The first phase exercise will cover gridding, plastering of sitting terraces, the establishment of ablution blocks fixed with basic utilities, renovation of VIP lounge fitting with sanitary rooms and kitchens, and construction of fully furnished dressing rooms among others.
The refurbishment process will take 1½ years to be fully completed.
The governor also said other playing grounds within the city will be similarly renovated.
“This ground (Joe Kadenge) has the capacity to accommodate other disciplines such as basketball, netball… We are creating more stands all around, other facilities for netball, and basketball, improving the drainage system, fitting the pitch with artificial turf to meet Fifa and international disciplines” added the governor.
Sakaja also added that the refurbishment of the city playgrounds intends to reduce crime cases among the youth.
“The biggest threat of insecurity in Nairobi is not Alshabab and Alqaeda, it is millions of disillusioned, disengaged young people who have no hope. We must create opportunities for them through sports” Governor Sakaja Johnson
Other stadiums earmarked for facelift include; Mwiki, Umoja 2, Jericho, and Dandora
