Gusii Stadium renovations start in earnest as Shabana's home ground gets makeover

Gusii Stadium © Shabana FC

Gusii Stadium renovations start in earnest as Shabana's home ground gets makeover

Festus Chuma 15:30 - 07.08.2023

Chinese expertise and county investment promise a thrilling football experience.

Newly promoted Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) side Shabana FC can breathe a sigh of relief as the much-awaited renovations at Gusii Stadium have finally kicked off. 

The stadium, located in the heart of Kisii County, was closed in June by the County Government of Kisii for much-needed upgrades. 

© Ndizi TV

Once completed, the stadium will boast a capacity of 25,000 seats, providing a modern and comfortable setting for football enthusiasts. 

With the works set to focus on the playing surface and perimeter fence, Shabana  is hopeful of returning to their beloved home ground soon, bidding farewell to the William Ntimama Stadium in Narok County, where they are set to temporarily play their matches.

The County Sports Executive of Kisii, Erick Ongeri Miyienda, recently revealed the extensive plans for the stadium's transformation. 

The much-anticipated renovations will see a substantial investment in the playing surface, as well as the installation of a backup generator to ensure uninterrupted power supply during matches. 

The perimeter fence, which is vital for security and crowd control, will also undergo significant improvement. 

A latest budget report from Kisii County indicates that the total cost of these renovations is expected to reach a substantial sum, with Sh20 million allocated for the perimeter fence and an additional Sh10 million for the backup generator.

A significant portion of the budget, approximately Sh4 million, will be dedicated to upgrading the playing surface, which has been a major concern in the past. 

During the previous season in the National Super League, several matches involving Shabana were postponed due to the consistent afternoon rains that frequently plague the Kisii region. 

With the planned improvements, the team is optimistic that they can bid farewell to rain-related cancellations and provide fans with an enhanced and safer football experience.

The renovations are being expertly handled by a Chinese contractor, ensuring a high standard of work and timely completion. 

Another team set to gain from the upgrades is National Super League side Gusii Stadium itself. 

The team, also facing numerous match postponements due to the poor condition of their home ground, is eager to witness the improvements that will finally allow them to play without weather-related interruptions.

The FKF Premier League season is fast approaching, and the excitement among football fans is palpable. 

Shabana, with their impressive performances in the lower leagues, will be making their much-awaited debut in the top-tier competition.

 They are set to open their campaign against another newly promoted side, Murang'a Seal, in what promises to be an intense showdown between the rising stars of Kenyan football.