Sports facilities: Joho furious over deplorable state of Mombasa stadia

Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho. [Kelvin Karani, Standard]

Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho has rebuked his sports officers for the poor state of the county’s two mini stadia that cost Sh160 million.

“I will not allow Uwanja wa Mbuzi and Bomu mini stadiums that cost the county colossal amount of money to be in a dilapidated state in a span of four years,” warned Joho.

The furious governor reprimdanded the County Chief Officer for Youth, Gender, Sports and Culture Innocent Mugambe and directed him to ensure the maintenance of the stadia was prioritised.

Former Mombasa Municipal Council Stadium which is now under Mombasa County Government is under construction. The new stadium will host a number of games and international matches. It will cost 1.7 billion shillings. 23rd June 2020. Photo Omondi Onyango/Standard

The county government in 2017 opened two mini stadia in a move aimed at improving sports in both North and West Coast of Mombasa.

Bomu Stadium situated West of Mombasa cost the county Sh85 million and can accommodate up to 3,000 spectators while Uwanja wa Mbuzi stadium that cost Sh75 million can comfortably accommodate 2,000 fans. Joho opened the two facilities with pomp and colour.

However, barely four years later, the facilities lie in disrepair.

“Mugambe, I am giving you three weeks to ensure Uwanja wa Mbuzi stadium is in good condition before I move to Bomu stadium for inspection,” said Joho.

Speaking at Uwanja wa Mbuzi when he handed over title deeds to Kongowea residents, Joho said the sporting facilities were constructed to help his government improve sports.

“The astroturf pitch is in tatters while the floodlights are faulty and must be repaired. I have given a three week ultimatum to see the stadium is in super condition,” said Joho.

The governor did not indicate when the Sh1.7 billion refurbishment work at the Mombasa stadium will be completed.