Gor Mahia, the champions of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League, have officially announced their intention to construct a modern stadium for future matches.
The initiative is spearheaded by Deputy Patron Eliud Owalo and chairman Ambrose Rachier, alongside newly elected officials, including Sally Bolo. On April 24th, the team undertook a site visit to evaluate the potential land for the stadium.
The club is considering a 48-acre site in Lukenya, adjacent to Daystar University in Machakos County, for the development of a cutting-edge stadium and sports complex. This project aims not only to solidify the club’s presence but also to enhance its reputation on the continental stage.
As outlined by Owalo, the envisioned infrastructure will feature a main stadium accommodating 60,000 spectators, alongside three training pitches designated for the senior, youth, and women’s teams. Additionally, there will be residential apartments for players and a four-star hotel.
The complex will also house various amenities, including an indoor gym, a multipurpose gymnasium, administrative offices, a media centre, a swimming pool, recovery facilities such as a sauna, and ample parking.
“We promised to identify a suitable location for Gor Mahia’s stadium, and today we are taking action to fulfil that promise,” Owalo stated after the site assessment. “The location’s closeness to Nairobi is ideal for our fans. It’s easily reachable whether they travel by car, bus, or even on foot if they’re as dedicated as we know they are.”
Rachier added: “We pray for wisdom and strength to carry out the construction we envision.”
Even though Gor Mahia holds the title for the most successful club in Kenyan history with 21 Premier League trophies, it has faced challenges regarding the infrastructure that matches its stature. The aspiration to establish a stadium has lingered for years, often hindered by funding issues, land disputes, or shifting club leadership.
The club currently relies on various venues in Nairobi for both league and continental matches, including the Nairobi City Stars, Nyayo Stadium, and Kasarani Stadium. Additionally, matches have been held at Machakos Stadium and Moi Stadium in Kisumu.
Embracing the ‘noble venture’ with open minds
Bolo, who was recently elected as Vice-Chairman for the club’s management over the next four years, stated that the proposal to build a stadium had generated discussions regarding its location, emphasizing the need for the club to approach this noble initiative with an open and impartial mindset.
“The strides we are making towards Gor Mahia having its own stadium are not only commendable but indeed, long overdue,” Bolo remarked. “In my view, this stadium project is a significant step forward.”
“Although there have been debates from various sectors, with no outright opposition to the project, concerns have arisen about the location of the proposed facility. It is crucial to tackle this noble venture with objectivity and openness.”
Bolo further emphasised the importance of constructing the stadium in Nairobi, highlighting Gor Mahia’s historical connections to the city:
“Founded in Nairobi and established there since 1968, the club’s registered home grounds are located in Nairobi. While it occasionally holds home games in Kisumu or more recently, Homa-Bay (pending federation approval), Nairobi undeniably remains the heart of Gor Mahia.”
“Furthermore, Gor Mahia’s origins as a community-oriented club, initially registered under the Societies Act, should be recognised, even though we now operate under the Sports Act.
“The founding members, notable figures such as the late Tom Mboya, Samuel Ayany, Prof Bethwell Allan Ogot, and Zack Ramogo, consciously chose to establish the club in Nairobi, making an intentional decision towards inclusivity. This historical bond with Nairobi must guide the planning of the new stadium.”
Western Kenya stadiums yield poor investment returns
Despite having several stadiums in Western Kenya, Bolo questioned the frequency of their utilisation for significant international events and the return on investment they have generated thus far.
“It’s essential to acknowledge that numerous stadiums exist in the western region, including two in Kisumu, one in Siaya, and another in Homa-Bay, with plans for a new venue in Migori County. The pressing question remains: How often are these facilities leveraged for high-profile international events? What return on investment (ROI) have they yielded so far?” Bolo posed.
“Moreover, the status of local football clubs in these regions, particularly those competing in the top leagues, is another key factor. Are these clubs attracting crowds large enough to fill the venues and produce significant revenue for their upkeep and elevation to international standards?”
According to Bolo, building Gor Mahia’s stadium in Nairobi will enhance the club’s commercial viability, thus supporting its financial sustainability. “I wholeheartedly endorse the proposed choice for the stadium’s location for several reasons:
“The new stadium should be regarded as primarily a commercial asset. It will allow the club to significantly cut down on the current expenses incurred from renting training grounds for the senior, youth, and women’s teams. Additionally, the club will cease to require rental for stadiums for home matches, both local and international. This facility will generate income from renting to other KPL or national teams, while adjacent amenities will enhance its profitability.”
She further noted that constructing the stadium will enable the club to meet the standard regulations set by FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
“FIFA and CAF regulations stipulate that matches played at venues more than 200km from the capital city entail that the home team must cover travel expenses for the away team and match officials, in addition to their own logistical requirements,” Bolo elaborated.
“Such regulations elevate costs dramatically for any club not based in Nairobi. By establishing a stadium in the Nairobi area, Gor Mahia can avoid these additional financial burdens, making international matches more practical and economically viable.”
She concluded: “Once completed, the stadium will not only benefit Gor Mahia but also cater to various sports, making it suitable for hosting premier events. Its proximity to the airport and Mombasa Road enhances its accessibility, thereby boosting its potential as a centre for international sports and entertainment occasions.”
“The distance from Nairobi’s CBD to Kasarani Stadium is roughly the same as that from the proposed site along Mombasa Road. However, the new location’s closeness to the expressway will shorten travel times, ensuring greater convenience for fans. The transport costs to the stadium will also be reasonable, broadening accessibility for a larger supporter base.”
Bolo wrapped up with: “While the concerns about the stadium’s location are legitimate, it’s vital to view this project as a long-term investment that will benefit the club, the metropolitan city of Nairobi, and the wider Kenyan sporting landscape. Gor Mahia, which has its roots in the Luo community, has transcended ethnic boundaries to become a national emblem.”
“The club has successfully attracted players from various Kenyan communities as well as across Africa, including prominent names like Innocent Mutiso, Francis Kahata, Nicholas Kipkirui, Haroun Shakava, Musa Mohammed, and Charles Momonyi. Currently, the club continues to draw talent from multiple ethnicities and nations.
“The facility will not only enhance the club’s operational efficiency but will also create a sustainable revenue stream, ensuring Gor Mahia remains competitive at both local and global levels.”
Established in 1968, Gor Mahia has claimed the Kenyan Premier League championship a remarkable 21 times, along with the FKF President’s Cup title on 11 occasions. They are the first and only club from Kenya to have achieved an African continental title, winning the African Cup Winners’ Cup in 1987 after previously finishing as runners-up in 1979.
In 1976, Gor Mahia went through the national league unbeaten, replicating this success 39 years later under coach Frank Nuttall. Currently, they are vying for their third consecutive title, positioned third in the 18-team league table with 50 points, just two behind leaders Kenya Police FC and one point shy of second-placed Tusker.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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