Defence Cabinet Secretary (CS), Hon. Soipan Tuya alongside Kisumu Governor, H.E Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, today presided over the ground-breaking ceremony of the 10,000 seater Moi Kisumu Stadium in Kisumu County, marking a major milestone in the Government’s efforts to modernise sports infrastructure and nurture sporting talent across the country. The project forms part of the national agenda to invest in facilities that promote youth empowerment, healthy lifestyles, and social cohesion while positioning sports as a key driver of socio-economic development.
Upon completion, the modern stadium will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including roofed Western, Eastern, Northern, and Southern pavilions, a football pitch constructed to FIFA and CAF standards, and an eight-lane athletics running track with a tartan finish compliant with World Athletics standards. The project will also incorporate supporting mechanical, electrical, and civil works, including fencing and adequate parking facilities, to ensure the stadium meets international benchmarks.
This project is one of the many projects that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) through the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is providing it’s technical expertise to, as a directive from H.E. the President and Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C), H.E William Ruto. Additionally, the initiative is a collaborative effort between the National Government and the Kisumu County Government, reflecting a shared commitment to delivering quality infrastructure that supports sports development at community, national, and international levels.
Beyond its sporting value, the Moi Kisumu Stadium is expected to generate significant economic benefits for Kisumu County and the wider Western Kenya region. During construction, the project will create employment opportunities and stimulate local businesses, while upon completion it is set to attract sporting events, boost sports tourism, and enhance Kisumu’s profile as a regional hub for athletics and football.
Speaking during the ceremony the CS reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to timely completion of the project for the benefit of present and future generations. She also added that the stadium will be constructed to standard and on budget. She went ahead and appreciated Kisumu County Governor for the collaboration shown so far for the project and assured the him that the MoD team will be making visits from time to time to ensure a smooth running of the project to completion. CS Tuya further highlighted other projects such as the Kenya Shipyards Limited that MoD and Kisumu County is also collaborating together. MoD has built and handed over 6 boats, 5 landing sites two of which have been handed over and 3 ongoing.
On his part, Kisumu Governor, lauded the move, saying the project represents the fruits of tireless diplomacy further expressed his appreciation to the President and MoD in honouring this bid. He reaffirmed his support and that of the county to MoD throughout the construction process of the stadium.
He further noted that the Moi stadium is also known as the cradle for legends having produced many talented athletes such as Peter Dawo. Additionally, the governor appreciated the President for designating Nairobi as the regional office for United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UGCLA) in East Africa, elevating Kenya to a prestigious group of only five countries in Africa cementing Kenya’s diplomatic status in the continent.
Also present was the Deputy Governor Kisumu County, Dr. Mathew Ochieng Owili, representing PS Sports, Sports Kenya Director General, Mr. Gabriel Komora, First President of Forum of African Regions (FORAF), Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, Sec General United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG-A), Amb. Elong Mbassi, Area MCA, Hon. Odhiambo Carren, Members of County Assembly, County Commissioner, Mr. Benson Leparmorijo.
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