•A key outcome of the stadium's revival will be the creation of employment opportunities for the youth.
• From event management to security, ticketing, concessions, and facility maintenance, a range of roles will be required to keep the stadium running smoothly.
Image: /FILE
Woodley and Joe Kadenge (formerly City Stadium) stadia are set for a major facelift after Nairobi County Government set aside Sh600 million to refurbish the facilities to meet international standards.
For the Joe Kadenge Stadium, Governor Johnson Sakaja has already given Sh98.3 million for Phase One of the project and the works have already commenced.
Sakaja said the stadium will come in handy for the youth once it is completed.
"Our young men and women have ventured into vices because of our neglect of sporting infrastructures within the county. It is now our responsibility to fix that mess and it starts here with Joe Kadenge Stadium," he said in a statement.
According to City Hall, Phase Once includes the replacement of the artificial turf, construction of pitch drainage systems, and erection of separation chain link fences.
Also, the exercise will include cover gridding, plastering of sitting terraces, 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 work is expected to take six months according to Governor Sakaja.
"A commitment to six months of dedicated work underscores the importance of revitalising the stadium to meet contemporary standards," Sakaja added.
The Joe Kadenge Stadium was founded in 1929 and has a rich sporting history.
Originally referred to as the Donholm Play Ground, this recreational facility gradually evolved into a symbol of Kenya's footballing heritage.
In the early days, locals would flock to the grounds to engage in various sports and other activities.
The stadium's transformation from a simple play area to a prominent sports arena continued as it earned the title of the City Stadium.
This was a turning point for Kenyan football as local league matches were played in the venue.
The energy and enthusiasm of fans reverberated through its stands, making it a cherished destination for anyone passionate about the beautiful game.
Its significance grew even further as it became the sole stadium to host international matches, an honor that cemented its position in Kenyan sports history.
The year 2007 marked a new chapter in the stadium's narrative. In collaboration with FIFA, Super Sport spearheaded a groundbreaking renovation that brought an artificial turf to the field.
This upgrade not only modernised the playing surface but also positioned the stadium as a beacon of sporting innovation.
The installation of the artificial turf was part of FIFA's commitment to African football, leading up to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. The project showcased the potential for growth and development within Kenya's sporting infrastructure.
Additionally, the introduction of artificial turf not only elevated the stadium's aesthetic but also spurred economic gains.
Revenue collection surged from Sh632,106 in 2008 to a staggering Sh6.2 million in 2012, because the facility had a bigger capacity.
This boost in revenue signified the stadium's increasing relevance in Kenya's sporting landscape.
However, this era of promise and modernity hit a snag when the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) security committee condemned the artificial turf in 2016 due to its deteriorating condition.
This setback underscored the need for comprehensive rehabilitation to preserve the stadium's legacy.
In 2019, the county government took action, engaging Lexis International Limited to embark on a restoration project valued at Sh 17 million.
The ambitious undertaking aimed to restore the stadium to its former glory, encompassing critical upgrades such as refurbishing seating terraces, renovating changing rooms, addressing plumbing and electrical issues, and constructing new toilet facilities.
Although progress was made, challenges arose due to financial constraints, halting the work's momentum.
Amid these challenges, the past and present leadership of the stadium stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to its sporting heritage.
In 2021, an executive order issued by former President, Uhuru Kenyatta, aimed to rebuild the stadium to international standards.
This vision, however, faced obstacles rooted in budgetary constraints.
The ball is now in Governor Sakaja's court to walk the take and oversee the upgrading of the facility.
According to Governor Sakaja, the stadium's upgraded facilities will lead to increased revenue collection for the county.
With modern amenities and an enhanced spectator experience, the stadium is poised to attract larger crowds for various events, translating into higher ticket sales, concessions, and other income-generating opportunities.
"This increased revenue will not only support ongoing maintenance but also contribute to the development of other vital community projects," he added.
A key outcome of the stadium's revival will be the creation of employment opportunities for the youth.
From event management to security, ticketing, concessions, and facility maintenance, a range of roles will be required to keep the stadium running smoothly.
"This will empower local youth, offering them practical experience and valuable skills that can pave the way for future careers," Sakaja added.
Image: NCCG