By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Venues that will host the 2023/24 FKF Premier League matches have been released with the FKF Vevue Inspection Committee ruling out five stadiums.
Gusii Stadium, Kisii, Ole Ntimama Stadium in Narok, Machakos County Stadium in Machakos, and Thika Stadium, Thika will not host matches, according to FKF chief executive officer Barry Otieno.
The venues to host high-risk matches are Kasarani Main Stadium in Nairobi, Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu, Raila Odinga Stadium (Homa Bay), Jomo Kenyatta Stadium (Kisumu), Ulinzi Sports Complex, Nairobi, Police Sacco Stadium, Nairobi, Bukhungu Stadium, Kakamega and Mbaraki Stadium, Mombasa.
Kasarani Annex, Utalii Grounds, Ruaraka Grounds, Muhoroni Stadium, SportPesa Arena, Murang’a Stadiums were approved to host low risk games.
The team focused on key aspects such as pitch quality, spectator facilities, security arrangements, and compliance with FKF, CAF, and FIFA regulations.
According to the report, pitch quality varied among the inspected venues. A few venues exhibited signs of wear and tear, requiring immediate attention to ensure player safety and match quality.
On spectator facilities, a few venues had a sitting arrangement that could accommodate a substantial number of spectators. However, some venues lacked proper sitting areas, shelter, and facilities such as restrooms and concession stands.
The committee recommended upgrades to enhance the overall fan experience.
On infrastructure, the committee found out that some venues lacked proper dressing rooms, medical facilities, and media areas which are essential for hosting top-tier matches.
Most of the venues lacked proper crowd control measures and emergency evacuation plans, according to the findings of the committee while perimeter walls around a few of the pitches was also a major concern.
Further, the committee noted that most venues met the minimum requirements set by FKF for hosting matches.
“The venue’s inspections revealed a mix of strengths and areas for improvement. With the recommended areas of action, these venues can be brought up to the necessary standards to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for players and fans alike,” the committee said,
FKF will be conducting monitoring and periodic re-evaluation of venues to ensure compliance of the recommendations.
