AFC Leopards chairman reacts to closure of Nyayo, Kasarani Stadia

AFC Leopards chairman Bonface Ambani has reiterated that it is high time the club and record league champions Gor Mahia built their own stadia.

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Ambani pointed out that the two Kenyan giants are most affected when Nyayo and Kasarani Stadia are closed for renovations.

“We have heard reports about the closure of Kasarani and Nyayo Stadia due to the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, and it is disappointing.

These renovations are being done haphazardly. It would have been better for Sports Stadia to ensure that facilities in Nakuru and Kakamega are in good shape before closing Nyayo and Kasarani.

As it is, where do they want us to play our matches, considering the season is still far off?” Ambani pointed out.

However, the former Tusker FC forward pointed out that the move poses a challenge to both AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia to build their own stadia.

“We have talked about this for long but now is the time to implement it. AFC Leopards, Gor Mahia and Tusker can and should build their own stadia.

That is the only way to end these frequent disruptions,” he said.

On Monday, Sports Stadia Director General Gabriel Komora announced the closure of the two facilities to pave the way for renovations ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations finals.

“We are commencing renovations at both Nyayo and Kasarani to make them ready for the Africa Cup of Nations and therefore will not be available for use as from February,” he said.

Komora further added that they are also discussing with the contractor and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) on how best to minimise the disruption that is set to affect local league matches and other sporting activities at the two venues.

“We want to see how best to minimise the disruption so that the clubs are not affected in a big way,” he said.

AFC Leopards are scheduled to host Gor Mahia on Sunday, 26 April, and this fixture could be affected by the new changes anticipated.

Last season, the derby involving the two teams was postponed twice due to a lack of a suitable venue, as Nyayo and Kasarani Stadia had been closed for renovations to host the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN).

Apart from Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, other local clubs like KCB, Sofapaka, Kariobangi Sharks, Posta Rangers and Mathare United will also have to search for new home grounds as they use Kasarani for their home matches.