Written by Roy Lumbe
The transformation of Nakuru into a premier sports and economic hub gathered pace on Monday as Governor Susan Kihika joined Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya to break ground for the reconstruction of the Olenguruone Stadium in Kuresoi South, a region renowned for producing world-class athletes.
The project, to be undertaken by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), is expected to boost talent development, drive sports tourism and stimulate local enterprise across Nakuru County. Kuresoi, home to global champions such as Faith Kipyegon and Faith Cherotich, has long lacked a modern sports facility to match its athletic pedigree.
Governor Kihika said the revival, initiated under a directive by H E President William Ruto, ends more than a decade of abandonment and will be integrated into a broader sports ecosystem alongside the Keringet High Altitude Training Centre, creating a pathway for young athletes to progress to professional competition.
Initially launched in 2012 but abandoned in 2016, the Olenguruone Stadium will feature a standard football pitch, athletics track, indoor courts, a new 3,000-seater pavilion, modern changing rooms, ablution blocks and a borehole to enhance sustainability.
CS Tuya said KDF will ensure timely delivery and quality standards, terming the project a model of cooperation between national and county governments. She praised Nakuru’s peace and diversity and cautioned youths against falling prey to fraudsters during the ongoing KDF recruitment, emphasising that the process is free and merit-based.
Kuresoi South MP Joseph Tonui said the project marks the fulfilment of a long-awaited promise to residents. At the same time, Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria noted it will attract investors and boost the rural economy through trade, hospitality and transport.
Governor Kihika urged residents to register as voters and called on leaders to prioritise unity and development, reaffirming her administration’s commitment to infrastructure that supports future generations.
The stadium is expected to be completed within a year, positioning Nakuru as the home of champions and an emerging hub for national and international sporting events.