NAIROBI, Kenya, April 15 – The Rugby Football Union of East Africa (RFUEA) grounds is currently undergoing a major face lift with a new set of stands being constructed to handle the increasing number of patrons.Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) grounds committee chairman Aggrey Chabeda said that the development on the Ngong Road end of the ground will cater for upto 1500 spectators.
“This development comprises of six units each with a seating capacity of 250 people,” said Chabeda at the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday.
“We expect this construction to be ready and complete within the next 14 days. There being constructed off site and then brought here (RFUEA grounds) where they are being assembled,” he added.
John Lloyd who spoke on behalf of the Rugby Patrons Society said that his organization was pleased with the advancement of the RFUEA as a world class arena.
“We are extremely delighted with the way this project has come about and we hope that it’s a fore runner to other major developments on this ground,” said Lloyd.
KRU chairman Richard Omwela said the project which has cost the union Sh12 million is a precursor to the long term development of the 55 year old ground.
“This is a temporary measure as we look towards the eventual plan of making this ground a fully fledged rugby stadium,” said Omwela.
“The biggest reason for this project was to address the seating capacity especially during the Safari Sevens where members of the public have been asking why they should pay Sh1000 to come and stand the whole day,” he added.
Meanwhile, Omwela said that the transmission of last weekend’s Kenya Cup semi finals on Supersport has spurred a lot of interest in Kenyan players from South African sides.
“We received positives responses from South African franchises who liked what they saw and want our players to go and play there,” said Chabeda.
Saturday’s final will be contested between three time champions Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) and Kenya Harlequins with kickoff scheduled for 4 pm.