By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Preparations are underway for the 14th East African Community (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games, scheduled to take place in the historic Coastal City of Mombasa from December 6th to December 17th.
The Joint Planning Committee presented a report of their findings on preparedness by the Coastal City of Kenya to host the championship to the EAC Legislative Assemblies Clerks during a meeting that was held at a Nairobi hotel. Kenya’s National Assembly Deputy Clerk, Mr. Jeremiah Ndombi, presided over the proceedings.
“Having assessed the level of preparedness to host the games by the Kenyan Parliament, the Committee is satisfied,” the report reads in part.
This year’s Championship will feature an unprecedented participation of nine EAC Member States, including Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and newcomer Somalia, alongside host nation Kenya.
The Multi-Discipline sporting event will encompass Football, Netball, Volleyball, Basketball, Athletics, Tug of War, Darts, and Golf, showcasing the region’s diverse sporting talents.
According to the venue allocation plan, the Kenya Ports Authority’s Mbaraki Stadium will serve as the primary venue for football and athletics events.
The prestigious Aga Khan Academy has been designated to host Basketball, Volleyball, Netball, and Darts competitions, while also providing training facilities for football and Tug of War teams.
Other grounds that will be used as training ground for football are Uwanja wa Mbuzi/ Hassan Joho stadium, Sheikh Zayed Academy and ASK showground in Kingowea.
Kenya Ports Authority’s Makupa Members Club will host the competition and also serve as a training field for basketballers.
Mr. Ndombi emphasized the significance of Mombasa’s selection as host city, noting, “This championship represents a prestigious opportunity for Mombasa’s residents, who have long demonstrated their passion for sports.
“The timing will enhance the festive atmosphere during the Christmas season, and we encourage local residents to participate in these exciting sporting events.”he added.
He further highlighted the economic implications, noting that Mombasa’s status as a premier tourist destination will enable visiting delegations to explore the city’s renowned attractions and hospitality sector.
The event is expected to generate significant economic benefits for local businesses and the tourism industry, creating opportunities for regional economic growth and cultural exchange.
The two -Day Clerks’ meetings serves as a precursor to the 18th Meeting of the Bureau of Speakers of EAC, scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday at the same venue.
The high-level gathering will witness the transfer of leadership from the. Right Honorable (Dr.) Tulia Ackson, Speaker of the Tanzanian Parliament, to the host nation’s Speaker, the Right Honorable (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula.
The Speakers will also review the preparations for the upcoming EAC Inter-Parliamentary Games.
