THE TOUCHLINE COLUMN

We must get sports facilities ready for Chan and Afcon tourneys

Kenya is refurbishing two facilities and putting the final touches to a new one ahead of schedule for the upcoming major football tournaments

In Summary

•Kenya is refurbishing two facilities and putting the final touches to a new one ahead of schedule for the upcoming major football tournaments, such as the Africa Cup of Nations and CHAN.

•Stadiums and arenas, practice fields, medical centres and accommodation options for officials and players should all be included in this list of facilities.

Sports Kenya's Director General Pius Metto, FKF president Nick Mwendwa, CAF president Patrice Motsepe (3rd R), Sports CS Ki[pchumba Murkomen lead the delegation on an inspection tour of Moi Stadium, Kasarani.
Sports Kenya's Director General Pius Metto, FKF president Nick Mwendwa, CAF president Patrice Motsepe (3rd R), Sports CS Ki[pchumba Murkomen lead the delegation on an inspection tour of Moi Stadium, Kasarani.
Image: HANDOUT

CAF President Patrice Motsepe believes Kenya will have all the necessary preparations and logistics in place ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations after engaging the government’s top guns.

Kenya is refurbishing two facilities and putting the final touches to a new one ahead of schedule for the upcoming major football tournaments, such as the Africa Cup of Nations and CHAN.

They include Nyayo Stadium, Moi Stadium, Kasarani and Talanta Stadium.

Authorities must ensure all facilities earmarked for use are ready for the impending showpieces.

Both domestic and foreign audiences pay close attention to these tournaments and having a well-organised infrastructure is essential for both players and spectators to have a positive and successful experience.

The nation must place a high priority on the preparedness of its sports facilities to guarantee the seamless and prosperous hosting of important football competitions.

Stadiums and arenas, practice fields, medical centres and accommodation options for officials and players should all be included in this list of facilities.

To bring these facilities up to date with international standards, we must invest in their upkeep and modernisation.

This entails increasing the number of seats, adding contemporary conveniences and making sure safety rules are followed.

The nation can create an unforgettable experience for fans and improve its standing as a respectable host by offering a secure and cosy atmosphere for spectators.

We must also remember Harambee Stars will be gunning for the title at home.

For effective preparation, they need a well-equipped training facility. Currently, Stars have been forced to train at the Police Sacco Stadium in South B.

Going forward, the nation should set aside enough funds to build cutting-edge training grounds with top-notch fields, training centres and all the equipment required.

These facilities ought to be easily reachable and furnished to meet the requirements of various teams, guaranteeing the teams’ capacity for effective training and sustained performance.

During football tournaments, the players’ and officials’ health comes first.

First-rate medical facilities adjacent to sports facilities must be given priority in the nation.

They include clinics, hospitals and ambulance services that are equipped to handle medical emergencies.

By prioritising player safety and wellbeing, we show commitment to offering a secure environment for all players.

Appropriate hotel options are necessary for officials and players to participate in the tournament.

The nation ought to make investments to provide officials and athletes with convenient and comfortable accommodations.

This includes lodging options like hotels, guest homes or player-only apartments that come furnished with everything needed for a comfortable stay.

The nation can promote a positive atmosphere and a focused and competitive atmosphere during the tournament by making sure officials and players have comfortable living quarters.