Construction of Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay County is set for completion in two weeks.

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the expansion of the stadium that began in March this year in preparation for this year’s national Madaraka Day (Independence Day) celebrations is on schedule.

Omollo who inspected the facility on Tuesday noted that the erection of the canopies on the new pavilions was ongoing. Initially, the stadium had only one pavilion with a capacity only 5,000. But according to Omollo, the stadium can now accommodate more than 10,000 people. 

The principal secretary was accompanied by Governor Gladys Wanga and the national celebrations steering committee on an inspection tour of the stadium. He said local businesses should take advantage of the national event to boost their turnover and profits.

“Prepare well and maximise on the big business opportunities that will be presented to you. Those offering hospitality services should prepare to receive a huge number of guests,” Omollo said.

Speaking after touring the stadium and Kabunde Airstrip on Tuesday, Omollo said the government is also improving the road network in Homa Bay town.

“Road agencies such as the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) and Kenya Urban Roads Authority (Kura) are improving the condition of roads in Homa Bay town. The government is also extending the runaway of Kabunde airstrip for landing of bigger aircrafts,” he said.

Wanga said the national celebration should be used to address issues affecting fishermen in Lake Victoria. The theme of this year’s Madaraka Day revolves around the blue economy. She said that safety was still a major problem in Lake Victoria as fishermen suffered from limited resources.

According to Wanga, reduced catch triggers fights between fishermen leading to deaths and injuries.

“We will use the national celebrations to offer a solution to problems faced by fisher folks. Issues surrounding fishing in Lake Victoria will be addressed,” she said.

The governor said they want to boost the economy of the lake, adding that fishermen should get enough catch to feed the country. She added that the ongoing projects would have long term economic benefits for residents.

Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan asked boda riders to relocate from their parking slots to create space for construction of walkways.

He said it was a temporary measure and the riders would return once the project was complete.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Davis Langat