Jomvu Member of Parliament Badi Twalib has urged the National and County Government of Mombasa to collaborate and complete the long-stalled renovation of the Mombasa Municipal Stadium.
He said the facility, once complete, should meet FIFA standards and enable Mombasa to host continental competitions.
The MP made the remarks Sunday while hosting his constituents at Kwa Ndege ya Badi recreational park, where they watched the Kenya versus Zambia match.
Twalib noted that Mombasa was unable to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) due to the lack of a standard stadium.
“The national government should intervene to ensure our Mombasa stadium is built, similar to Talanta Nairobi, Kasarani, and Nyayo. Mombasa is the country’s second city after Nairobi. After CHAN, AFCON will follow. Without a proper sports’ facility in Mombasa, we will not be proud,” he said.
Twalib emphasised that if the Port City had a stadium, it would have hosted some of the CHAN matches. He also stressed the urgent need to establish sports’ academies in schools to promote talent development.
“I am working closely with the County Government to improve our sports grounds. The Governor is supporting the enhancement of sports facilities,” he said, adding that a basketball court is currently under construction in Mikindani Ward.
The legislator congratulated the Harambee Stars for their impressive performance under the tutelage of Coach Benni McCarthy.
He also praised the Head of State for his steadfast support of the national team, saying it has motivated the players and contributed to their success.
“Take Captain Abud, for example. He studied at Khamisi Secondary School, where I also studied. Most talents are nurtured at the grassroots,” Twalib said.
The Legislator stated that it is high time for the National and County Governments to improve sports infrastructure and the provision of proper training kits.
“We’ve seen that football as a career pays. Previously, we only admired international stars, but now, with the President’s commitment to rewarding players with cash prizes worth millions, lives are being transformed. We don’t want this to be seasonal but a sustainable career path and source of employment,” Twalib added.
He further noted that contrary to the belief that the best players come from abroad, the tournament had proven that local talent is equally competitive, stressing the need to nurture young players.
At the same time, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade and Tourism Mohamed Osman lauded the initiative by the MP to host football fans who couldn’t travel to Nairobi.
“As a County Government, in the quarter-final match, we will make sure fans across the sub-counties watch the match since football brings people together,” assured the CECM.
