Residents raise questions delay in handing over Wang’uru stadium

The stadium was completed in 2021 and was expected to be officially opened by President William Ruto during his visit to the region in October 2022. 

In May 2023, Sports Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke, accompanied by Kirinyaga Deputy Governor David Gitathanda, inspected the facility and announced that it would be opened within three months. However, the stadium remains closed to date.

Local leaders, led by nominated youth MCA Bosco Gichangi, renewed calls for the stadium’s opening following a recent visit to Kirinyaga Central Constituency by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. They urged the national government to hand over the facility so that it can benefit the local community.

Murkomen said the stadium’s opening is pending the payment of KSh20 million owed to the contractor, adding that he would engage Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya to resolve the issue.

“The stadium will be opened once the outstanding KSh20 million is paid to the contractor. I will discuss the matter with Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya,” Murkomen said.

The stadium, which has a capacity of between 10,000 and 15,000 spectators, is equipped with modern amenities. Local football teams, including Mwea United FC and Fortune Sacco FC, are expected to benefit once it is opened.

“If the stadium is opened, it can be used by our teams such as Mwea United and Fortune Sacco FC. Currently, Mwea United FC uses Mwea GK Prison grounds, yet we have the Wang’uru Stadium,” said Gudson Muchira, the patron of Mwea United FC.