Mombasa: The national government has pledged to construct a new stadium in Mombasa, as announced by United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Omar Hassan Sarai. The announcement followed the completion of the Talanta Stadium, signaling a commitment to enhancing football infrastructure in the coastal region.
According to Kenya News Agency, Sarai made the announcement during the finals of the Kitaka Holiday Peace Cup at Mwahima Stadium in Likoni Sub-County. He emphasized the government's efforts to expand football infrastructure and improve talent-nurturing programs. Sarai assured that local stadiums, including Mwahima, would be upgraded to meet FIFA standards.
Sarai revealed ongoing discussions with Football Kenya Federation Chairman Hussein Mohammed and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, facilitated by President William Ruto, to prioritize stadium development in Mombasa. He highlighted the potential of improved sports facilities to provide more opportunities for coastal youth to join national and international football leagues.
He expressed hope that during the 2027 AFCON tournament, many young talents from Likoni and Mombasa would advance to prestigious leagues such as the English Premier League and La Liga. Sarai also praised the recent by-election outcomes, noting the results have bolstered the party's national popularity.
UDA Mombasa Chairperson Ali Khamisi Kitaka encouraged residents to evaluate leaders based on their performance rather than political promises, especially as the 2027 general elections approach. Kitaka criticized some appointed leaders for not effectively utilizing their positions to benefit the community.
He urged leaders to deliver tangible services to the public before pursuing elective offices. Kitaka also requested the UDA Secretary General to establish a six-million-shilling football tournament in Mombasa, similar to an ongoing event in Kwale County.
The Kitaka Holiday Peace Cup concluded with Napoli FC defeating AC Scud in the men's category following a penalty shootout. In the women's category, Shika Adabu Queens emerged victorious over Shika Adabu JSS with a 3-1 win.