Busia:The proposed relocation of Busia’s stadium to the Agriculture Training Center (ATC) has stirred significant debate among local leaders and the public. Concerns are rising over the intended move, with many urging the Busia county government to reevaluate its decision.
The Kenya News Agency reported that during a public participation forum held at ATC, leaders including Bukhayo North/Walatsi MCA Gady Jakaa and Dennis Okinda of Bukhayo Central unitedly requested the governor to reconsider. They emphasized the importance of current Agriculture training centers in achieving food security goals.
MCA Jakaa voiced a proposal for the county to transform the ATC into a university or college. The institution would focus on agriculture courses, aiming to arm numerous youths with modern agricultural skills. “The governor on several occasions has been on record advocating for food security and revitalization of our industries through provision of raw materials which requires agriculture knowledge offered at ATC,” stated Jakaa.
However, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Culture and Sports, Paul Olung’a, revealed that Sh80 million is already allocated for the construction of the new Busia sports field. This would refurbish the existing stadium with enhanced features like a modern perimeter wall and an improved VIP pavilion.
The existing Busia stadium suffered damage during a protest by Azimio demonstrators protesting the high cost of living three months ago. This prompted the governor’s decision to relocate the stadium and the polytechnic, both of which are centrally located near the Busia County Referral hospital.
The county administration believes the current stadium’s location is suboptimal. They suggest that its land could serve better purposes, such as the expansion of the county referral facility, thus enhancing the region’s medical services.
Resident Harrison Nyongesa expressed his viewpoint, “The ATC land was reserved for a public purpose including establishing a university of agriculture or other institution centered on excellence in agriculture.”
On the other hand, local sports enthusiasts have praised the county’s initiative to move the stadium, noting the potential for the development of state-of-the-art facilities to support various sports.
Dispelling rumors, the county leadership denied any intentions to sell the existing stadium’s land to private developers for mall construction. The relocation decision also faces opposition from the Senator for Busia County, Okiyo Omtatah.