Protests planned ahead of Kipchoge Keino Stadium conversion to marketplace

The iconic Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Kapsabet, Nandi County, is at the center of a growing storm.

Athletics enthusiasts are set to march on Tuesday 17 December in protest against a recent decision by the Nandi County Government to convert the incomplete stadium into a marketplace, citing the move as a blow to the county’s reputation as the Home of Champions.

The plan involves moving the stadium to Nandi’s showground and beginning construction of a new track.

However, critics argue this proposal is riddled with logistical and financial challenges.

A source who sought anonymity told Mozzart Sport that the residents and athletics fanatics in the talent-rich area are against the move being pushed down their throats by the authorities.

“The showground is also the training ground for volleyball and hosts tournaments. Relocating the stadium there will displace another sport,” the source added.

Skepticism also looms over the county and national government’s ability to deliver on the new project.

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The stadium’s construction has been long overdue. Five years after renovations began, the project remains stalled, with overgrown grass and unfinished terraces overshadowing the completed VIP pavilion.

Despite a promise by the national government to inject Sh200 million into the project, the funds are yet to materialize.

“If it’s taken this long to renovate the current stadium, how can we trust them to construct a new one at the showground in a reasonable timeframe? It’s crazy,” lamented the source.

The source also lamented the position of the showground, arguing that it was not a strategic location for a stadium. They noted that the showground's distance from town would create significant challenges for athletes and fans, particularly in terms of accessibility.

“Why are you taking away the stadium when Nandi is the source of champions? Relocating the stadium to the showground is not the solution. The showground is out of town, making it inconvenient for athletes and fans alike,” they offered.

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Critics also argue that political interference has derailed the stadium’s progress, jeopardizing opportunities for athletes in the region.

“Politics and sports cannot marry. The location of the stadium is key. Moving it out of town will only make things harder for athletes and fans,” they said.

Since the stadium was closed for renovations, athletes have been forced to train on footpaths through tea plantations or travel 15 kilometers to the University of East Africa, Baraton, to access proper training facilities.

Despite these challenges, athletes from Nandi County have continued to represent Kenya on the global stage with pride.

As the clock ticks, the fate of Kipchoge Keino Stadium hangs in the balance. Will the voices of athletes and enthusiasts force a reconsideration of the proposed conversion? Or will the stadium, named after one of Kenya’s most iconic athletes, lose its identity as a beacon of hope for sports in Nandi County?