PS DEFENCE ASSESSES PROGRESS OF PROPOSED KIDUNDU STADIUM IN VIHIGA COUNTY

Defence Principal Secretary Dr Patrick Mariru has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to expanding modern sports infrastructure across the country following a working visit to Vihiga County to assess progress on the proposed Kidundu Stadium.

The 10,000-seater stadium is part of a national directive by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), William Samoei Ruto, to construct modern stadia aimed at boosting sporting activities, empowering youth, and nurturing local talent. The facility is expected to serve as a key hub for sports development and socio-economic growth within Vihiga County and the wider Western region.

During the visit, Dr Mariru was hosted by the Governor of Vihiga County, Wilber Ottichilo, at the Vihiga County Government headquarters. Discussions focused on the way forward to ensure the project commences without delay. The leaders emphasized the importance of timely mobilisation and effective intergovernmental coordination to deliver the project within the set timelines.

Dr Mariru later toured the site secured by the County Government for construction of the stadium. He expressed satisfaction with the preparatory steps undertaken so far and underscored the need for close collaboration between the National and County Governments to actualise the project.

The construction of Kidundu Stadium will be implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Defence through KDF, in collaboration with the County Government of Vihiga and the Ministry of Sports. The Ministry of Defence, through its engineering expertise, will ensure adherence to quality standards, value for money, and timely execution.

Also present were the Deputy Governor of Vihiga County, Wilberforce Kitiezo; senior officers from Defence Headquarters; Vihiga County Woman Representative Beatrice Kahai Adagala; Speaker of the Vihiga County Assembly Christopher Omulele; County Commissioner Peter Maina; Members of the County Executive Committee; Chief Officers; other county officials; and local elected leaders, including the Member of County Assembly for Central Maragoli Ward.

The proposed stadium is expected to significantly enhance sports infrastructure in Vihiga County by providing a modern facility that will nurture talent, promote youth engagement, and contribute to sustainable community development.