Kenya Seeks Private Investors Help in Stadium Maintenance

Kenya's Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has proposed a significant shift in stadium development and maintenance strategies, advocating for the implementation of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).

Addressing the National Assembly on September 23, Murkomen emphasized the crucial need for private sector involvement, citing the government's current budgetary constraints as a major hurdle in stadium upkeep. The Cabinet Secretary is actively engaging with the Council of Governors to explore potential collaborations with private entities. This initiative involves a comprehensive review of existing sports policies to determine optimal private sector integration in stadium improvement projects. Murkomen drew comparisons with international practices, notably referencing England, where Wembley Stadium stands as the sole state-owned facility, primarily serving international matches and cup finals.

He argues that government ownership of stadiums places an unnecessary burden on taxpayers, a sentiment echoed in many countries worldwide. This proposal comes at a critical juncture as Kenya prepares to co-host the 2025 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) alongside Tanzania and Uganda. The Nyayo and Kasarani Stadia are slated to be the primary venues in Kenya, with President William Ruto assuring their readiness for the competition's commencement on February 1, 2025. The urgency of the situation is further compounded by a recent High Court ruling that declared the Privatisation Act of 2023 unconstitutional, effectively halting the government's plans to privatize 11 parastatals.

This legal setback has intensified pressure on the Ministry to identify alternative funding and maintenance solutions for sports infrastructure. Murkomen has been personally overseeing the progress of ongoing stadium projects having recently inspected the long-delayed Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County, a 15,000-seater facility that has faced numerous setbacks despite substantial investment. The Cabinet Secretary expressed a mix of optimism and concern during his visit, urging for the swift completion of the project to enable it to host national teams and various events. Additionally, Murkomen highlights the ongoing renovations at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani and the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret. These projects are crucial as Kenya prepares a joint bid with Uganda and Tanzania for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027.

The Kipchoge Keino Stadium is expected to be completed by December 2025, featuring significant upgrades including roofing, VIP seating, floodlighting, and pitch improvements. The government's push for PPPs is viewed as a strategic move to alleviate the financial strain on taxpayers while ensuring the maintenance of high-quality sports facilities. By involving private investors, the Ministry aims to commercialize stadiums, transforming them into self-sustaining venues capable of hosting a wide range of sports activities. This approach aligns with global best practices, where private sector involvement has proven effective in managing and maintaining sports infrastructure.