Shrubs and bushes have filled the entire Woodley Stadium despite the Nairobi County Government setting aside over 100 million shillings for renovations.
Furious Kenyans have reacted to the deplorable condition of Woodley Stadium after recent footage and images revealed the dismal state of the grounds.
Woodley, arguably the oldest stadium in the country, was built over 50 years ago by the Scottish community in the area before it was sold to the Nairobi City Council after independence.
It is the only stadium in Kibra and serves as a crucial facility for more than 30 teams and schools during school games. However, it was shut down for renovations during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
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In August 2023, Governor Sakaja initiated a groundbreaking exercise for the rehabilitation of Woodley Stadium and Joe Kadenge Stadium, formerly known as City Stadium, as reported by Passion Sports.
The Nairobi County Government approved an additional Ksh238.9 million in the 2023-2024 Supplementary Budget to supplement the initial Ksh390 million.
Despite these allocations, nothing significant has happened for nearly two years, frustrating fans who have been demanding change and accountability.
Public Outrage on Social Media
The condition of Woodley Stadium has sparked outrage among Kenyans, who took to social media to express their disappointment:
“Kidogo kidogo investor atajenga estate hapo. I pass everyday at Woodley grounds ni msitu sahii (Before long, an investor will turn it into an estate. I pass by Woodley Grounds daily and it has become a bush),” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“Hii ni grao au kichaka aki what are this county government doing (Is this a ground or a bush? What is this county government doing)?” another one wrote.
“Hio nyasi unataka kusema ingekuwa Grade 3 sasa? (You mean to say that this grass would be categorized as grade three by now?)”
“Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is not serving any purpose, it should be disbanded,” a fourth wrote on Facebook.
“Shuttering young people's dreams and talents, I used to train boxing there back then,” another user said.
“Really far cry from 70’s, 80’s. You would think we improve social facilities as time passes!”
MCA’s Explanation
Woodley MCA Davidson Ngibuini explained the reasons behind the stadium's current state. Responding on Jeff Kinyanjui’s Facebook page, the former radio presenter stated:
“Woodley Stadium stalled because the contractor was not paid on time. He was paid seven months later and withdrew citing delayed payments. The contract was subsequently terminated.
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“This project has since been retendered and awarded to a new contractor. We are awaiting the contract to be signed so that the works can resume. Hii lazima imalizike (This must be completed).”