Government assures small traders as construction of 10,000-seater Thika Stadium set to begin

The National Government has assured traders and residents that no business stalls will be demolished during the construction of the new Thika Stadium, a major project set to transform the town into a key sporting hub.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony of the new modern Thika Stadium, Cabinet Secretary for Defence Soipan Tuya clarified that the stadium project will be fully funded by the National Government at a cost of Ksh. 850 million, with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) contracted to undertake the technical works and construction in support of the Ministry of Sports.

“There will be no demolition of stalls. What has already been developed by the Kiambu County Government, including the 600 stalls, borehole and other amenities, will remain intact,” CS Tuya stated.

She explained that the new facility will have a seating capacity of 10,000 and will include a main football stadium, fans’ stands, a basketball court, a swimming pool and other modern amenities.

CS for Sports Salim Mvurya emphasised that the stadium is being designed to meet international standards and will be capable of hosting international matches and sporting events.

“This will be an international stadium that can accommodate global matches and sports competitions. We expect the project to be completed before the end of the year,” Mvurya said.

He dismissed claims circulating on social media that traders’ stalls would be demolished to pave way for the project.

“No public money will be lost over alleged demolitions. I urge residents to ignore the propaganda going around that stalls will be brought down,” he added.

Mvurya further noted that the National Government is also investing in sports development in the region, highlighting the establishment of a Talanta Academy in Kiganjo, Thika.

Kiambu County’s Deputy Governor Rosemary Njeri Kirika welcomed the initiative, terming it a strong demonstration of cooperation between the two levels of government.

“This is a good collaboration between the County Government and the National Government for the benefit of our people,” she said.

Thika Town Member of Parliament Alice Ng’ang’a also reassured residents, affirming her commitment to protecting small businesses while supporting development.

“I have lived in Thika for the longest time and I will not jeopardise development. At the same time, I will always support and protect small businesses. These stalls will not be demolished,” she said.

The MP further revealed that the project is expected to take approximately three months to complete and expressed optimism that the new facility will be ready to host this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations.

“This year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations will be held in the new Thika Stadium,” she announced.

Once complete, the 10,000-capacity stadium is expected to significantly boost sports, talent development and economic activity in Thika and the wider Kiambu region.