Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega, western Kenya, is on a sprint to reclaim its status as Kenya’s ‘Football Cathedral’. The stadium was deprived of its pilgrimage status following years of neglect by sports administrators and successive government since independence.

The sports facility, built before the start of the Second World War after the North Kavirondo (North Nyanza) team (which later evolved into Abaluhyia FC, then AFC Leopards) beat visiting English premier side Remington FC in 1936, has been the breeding ground for star footballers in Kenya. However, it had been relegated to ignominy by successive governments until 2023 when it staged one of the best shows of school games that was lauded across East Africa region as a magnificent talent parade.

The successful 2023 school ball games brought back memories of 1936 match that saw Western Kenya team that included the likes of Peter Muchuma (captain), Elijah Masinde wa Namene, Musisi, Nate and Elijah Lidonde, among others outsmart Remington FC 3-0 to become the first African team to beat a European team.

The match was organised by governor of the British colony, Joseph. While on tour of North Kavirondo –also known as Luhyialandd – Governor Joseph was amazed at the quality footballers in the region, hence invited Remington FC for a tour of the region in 1936. The North Kavrondo victory led to the construction of Bukhungu Stadium – or Mpira kwe Mwitukho in local Luhyia language – in which nearly all the big names in Kenyan football have played.  

Cabinet Secretary of Sports Salim Mvurya, who was in Kakamega recently to inspect progress of reconstruction of Bukhungu International Stadium in Kakamega, has assured the country that the ‘Cathedral’ will be ready in time to host some 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) matches. This follows a successful joint bid by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania to host the tournament that has been dominated by West and North Africa.

Speaking to journalists in Kakamega after inspection of the ongoing Phase II construction, the minister expressed confidence that the facility is on course to hosting Africa’s most prestigious football show in 2027.

“I am excited with the type of work being done here. Bukhungu Stadium will soon be used for international tournaments because it has a 30,000 capacity,” said Cabinet Secretary of Sports Salim Mvurya.

Similarly, he disclosed that the international stadium will be completed in record time and assured the public and sporting fraternity that the national government is committed to ensuring the facility meets required standards, including offering a world-class venue for a variety of sports.

The CS’s sentiments were expressed a few days after the president’s, who while on his development tour in the region, directed the contractor to complete the facelift of the stadium by June this year.

“The pace at which the Bukhungu Stadium is being renovated is unacceptable. The facility’s facelift must be completed by the middle of 2025,” President William Ruto told the contractor.

He added, “The 2027 AFCON is a great opportunity for our country and we cannot afford delays in infrastructure development. I have instructed the ministry of sports to ensure that Bukhungu Stadium is fully completed and ready for use ahead of the tournament,” Ruto directed.

The cabinet secretary’s was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of Sports Peter Tum and local leaders led by Kakamega County Governor Fernandez Barasa, who expressed confidence in the progress of the stadium’s construction.

“I assure each and every one that measures are being taken to meet the stringent requirements for hosting the tournament. Our stadium will play a pivotal role in enhancing sports development in the region,” said Governor Barasa.

He added, “As a county, we are excited about the opportunities this stadium will bring. It is not just about football but businesses, jobs and prestige that come with hosting major sporting events,” Barasa said.

Bukhungu Stadium, is one of Kenya’s key sports facilities that has been undergoing phased renovations for several years. However, in mid-2024, the national government took over the project to fast-track its completion and ensuring all is done by mid-2026.

• A Tell report / Isaac Andanje Wakhungu