The expansion of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Siaya town has entered its second phase, which brings local football clubs closer to having a larger, modern facility capable of hosting major sporting events.Download Our MozzartSport App For More NewsThe project will increase the stadium's spectator capacity from 5,500 to 20,000, a significant boost to football and athletics in Siaya County and the wider Nyanza region.##NAJAVA_MECA_10047203##Launched by President William Ruto in January 2025, the stadium's modernisation is expected to be completed by March 2027, as Kenya steps up preparations to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Uganda and Tanzania.In an update on Thursday, 22 October, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the project was progressing through a partnership between the national and county governments, with the facility expected to play a greater role in developing local talent and attracting major competitions.“Nurturing grassroots football and athletics talent across Nyanza, the modernisation of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Siaya town is positioning the facility as a catalyst for sports tourism, regional tournaments, and local enterprise, particularly as Kenya prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations,” Omollo said.To ensure the stadium meets the required standards, the government placed the project under the Ministry of Defence, with Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) engineers overseeing construction.The first phase delivered a FIFA-standard football pitch measuring 110 by 68 meters, VVIP lounges, modern changing rooms, and an outdoor basketball court.Muyoti disputes Kenya Police claim of mutual exitThe ongoing second phase is centred on expanding the stands, with five new terraces planned alongside structural works for a roof canopy extending around the stadium.The additions are expected to improve spectator comfort and the venue's capacity to host large crowds.The facility also features a 400-meter, eight-lane red-tartan athletics track, broadening its potential beyond football and providing a venue for athletics competitions at different levels.Omollo said the investment was also intended to create opportunities for young people and support safer, more vibrant communities through organised sporting activities.“Sports infrastructure also contributes to safer and more vibrant communities by providing young people with constructive opportunities while supporting organised public activity,” he added.EXCLUSIVE: Invincible league-winning Gor Mahia coach eyes Harambee Starlets jobFor Siaya's football community, the expanded stadium could provide a much-needed venue for competitive matches, talent development, and events capable of attracting supporters and generating business for local traders.Bondo United, one of the county's prominent sides competing in the FKF Division One League, is among the clubs that could benefit from improved sporting infrastructure.Other institutional teams include Siaya National Poly and Siaya Institute, while community clubs such as TNS, Sega Sharks, Abimbo, Ramula Homeboys, Ndere Young Stars, and Gem United contribute to the county's competitive football scene.##NAJAVA_MECA_10047209##The grassroots game is also represented by VSA Levo, Siaya Police FC, Ramba, Lihanda FC, Mfalme United, Uhendo Hotspurs, Wang'bith, Uhola and Ugenya Hot Stars.The county's community and youth football structure extends further to Dero and its women's side, Dero Divas, as well as Madiany FC, Ujwang'a FC, Akom FC, Obaga FC, Rachar FC, Lweya CDC, Wera JSS, Bingwa FC, Riverside FC, and Usenge FC.Barding High School, a prominent name in school sports, also forms part of the wider football development structure in the county.
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