Kipchoge Stadium in Eldoret remains an unfinished dream over 15 years since renovations began. While other counties like Nakuru, Kakamega and many other have made massive strides in sports infrastructure, Eldoret which is Kenya’s renowned home of champions continues to miss out on the revenue, recognition, and opportunities that a functional stadium could bring.
Nakuru’s Afraha Vs Kipchoge Stadium
Nakuru’s Afraha Stadium began renovations in 2021, and in just under four years, the venue is already hosting major athletic events. Just this past weekend, it was the stage for the Athletics Kenya Track & Field meet, drawing national attention and injecting life into the local economy. In stark contrast, Eldoret, despite being a hub for world-class track and field talent, still lacks a modern facility to host similar events.
The prolonged delay in completing Kipchoge Stadium is more than just a construction issue. It’s an economic and social setback. Eldoret is home to more track and field athletes than any other region in Kenya. From Olympic champions to rising stars, the town’s identity is deeply rooted in athletics. Yet, without a functioning stadium, athletes are denied the platform to showcase and sharpen their skills on home soil.
Moreover, the economic ripple effects of a fully operational Kipchoge Stadium would be significant. Hosting national and international events would bring in substantial revenue to the town. Hotels would see increased bookings, local transport would be in higher demand, and advertising opportunities would surge. Sports vendors, event organizers, and small businesses would also benefit from the influx of visitors during competitions.
Beyond the financial aspect, a completed stadium would serve as a critical training and development ground for young athletes. It would also help in talent scouting, community engagement, and fostering pride among residents.
The question remains: why has Kipchoge Stadium taken over 15 years to complete, and what is the Uasin Gishu County government’s plan moving forward? The continued delay is not only costing Eldoret financially but also holding back countless dreams and opportunities.
As other regions rise by investing in sports infrastructure, it’s time Eldoret catches up. Kipchoge Stadium should be a symbol of progress and pride, not a monument to broken promises. Uasin Gishu County should prioritize the completion of this key facilities such as Kipchoge Stadium and 64 Stadium
Eldoret can no longer afford to watch from the sidelines. This is the time to act.
