- The academy would provide young people with constructive opportunities, helping keep them away from drug and substance abuse
- The facility is expected to provide a world-class environment for training and developing the next generation of footballers
The construction of the KSh. 55 million Kimuchu Sports Academy in Kamenu Ward, Thika Town Constituency, is nearing completion, with the facility expected to be completed and handed over within the next three weeks.
The academy, located at Kimuchu Comprehensive School grounds in Kiganjo area, is among 37 Talent Development Academies being constructed under Phase I of the Government’s nationwide sports infrastructure programme aimed at identifying, nurturing and developing young sporting talent in schools and other learning institutions across the country
Speaking during an inspection of the project, the contractor said the bulk of the construction work has already been completed, with only finishing works remaining.
“We are now in the final stages of construction. What remains is mainly painting, tiling and other finishing works. The playing field is complete, grass has already been planted, stone pitching has been done, and red soil has been spread. We expect to complete and hand over the project within the next three weeks,” he said.
The contractor said the facility already has terraces, separate changing rooms for home and away teams, classrooms, showers and storage rooms.
Once complete, the academy will boast a standard football pitch, an eight-lane athletics track, volleyball, netball and basketball courts, a swimming pool, a borehole, modern changing rooms and other essential amenities designed to support sports development and talent nurturing.
During a comprehensive inspection of the project, Thika Town MP Alice Ng’ang’a expressed satisfaction with the progress, saying the academy is about 90 per cent complete and commending the contractor for the quality of workmanship.
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“I am impressed by both the quality of work and the progress made so far. This academy will create opportunities for our young people to discover and nurture their talents while opening pathways to professional sports,” she said.
The MP, who was accompanied by other leaders including Bishop David Kariuki Ngari and Ngoliba ward MCA Joachim Njama, also expressed hope that the facility would be ready to complement Thika Stadium as Kenya prepares to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“We are optimistic that when the country is hosting regional and international sports activities, Thika will be home to diverse sporting disciplines once this facility, as well as the upgrade of Thika Stadium, is complete,” Ng’ang’a said.
Njama said the academy would not only transform sports but also stimulate economic growth in the area by attracting visitors from different parts of the country. Njama added that the academy would provide young people with constructive opportunities, helping keep them away from drug and substance abuse while enabling talented athletes to earn a living through sports.
Once operational, the facility is expected to provide a world-class environment for training and competition while serving as a hub for discovering and developing the next generation of footballers, athletes and other sports personalities capable of representing Kenya at regional, continental and international competitions.
By John Kamau
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