Ruto unveils Desert Complex Turf, pledges support to build stadiums
During the launch, Ruto emphasised that sports is an essential sector that should receive the necessary attention.
From tough to turf. These are the new scenes at Desert Complex Turf, fondly known as Desa Grounds, which was officially launched by President Ruto during his tour of Kamukunji in Nairobi.
During the launch, Ruto emphasised that sports is an essential sector that should receive the necessary attention.
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He acknowledged that Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has planned to construct ten more grounds of a similar capacity in the city, promising that the national government would collaborate with the county government to ensure the project's success.
“I want to thank your governor and the county government at large because sports in this city is of great importance. I have been informed by your governor, and I want to commend him again for prioritising social infrastructure in Nairobi, including playing grounds. I understand that the county government is building ten more playing grounds similar to Desa Grounds and four additional major stadiums in Nairobi. I want to assure the governor that the national government will support these efforts,” Ruto said.
The launch of Desert Complex Turf follows recent reports by Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu, who raised multiple concerns regarding the management of public funds allocated for the rehabilitation of stadiums, including Joe Kadenge Stadium and Dandora Stadium.
According to the report, the affected facilities include Joe Kadenge Stadium (formerly City Stadium), Dandora Stadium, Woodley Stadium (formerly Joseph Kang'ethe), Jericho Playground, and Desert Playground in California Ward.
At Desert Playground in California Ward, Gathungu highlighted that despite a contract of Sh30 million, crucial works remained incomplete. The contract, signed on 8th March 2023, was expected to be completed within six months.
However, a review of project records revealed several unfinished components, including missing plastic terrace seats, a leaking roof, an uncompleted football pitch, the absence of artificial turf, and an incomplete perimeter wall.
The President, however, promised to authorise the Sports Fund to ensure that young people receive the necessary sports equipment to nurture their talent and develop grassroots sports.
“I will authorise the Sports Fund to provide the required equipment to young people for sports so that we can nurture talent and grow grassroots sports here in Nairobi. This initiative will also help tap into talent in remote areas,” said Ruto.
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