Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Kapsabet, a historic sports ground that has nurtured generations of Kenyan athletes, is at the center of a heated dispute after plans emerged to demolish it for redevelopment. A group of retired and active athletes has taken the matter to the High Court in Eldoret, seeking to block the proposed changes by Nandi County.
The petitioners argue that the stadium is more than just a sports facility; it is a symbol of heritage and identity for the North Rift region, which has produced some of the world’s greatest runners. They claim that demolishing the iconic venue would not only waste public resources invested in its 2016 upgrade but also undermine athletics, a sport that provides employment and pride to thousands in the community.
According to the athletes, the proposed redevelopment plan to convert 8.7 acres of the stadium into a modern market and relocate sporting activities to the Eliud Kipchoge Sports Complex is unlawful and disregards public opposition. They contend that the public participation exercise held in December 2024 was inadequate and centralized, failing to reflect the majority view of residents who opposed the move.
The petition further alleges that the relocation is driven by ulterior motives, including attempts to grab prime land within Kapsabet town under the pretext of urban expansion. The athletes insist that preserving the stadium is crucial to maintaining green space, cultural heritage, and opportunities for youth in athletics.
On the other hand, county officials maintain that the redevelopment is aligned with the municipality’s master plan and national development goals. The project seeks to expand Kapsabet’s central business district, create jobs, and modernize infrastructure, with part of the showground earmarked for affordable housing and the old market converted into a transport hub.
The dispute highlights the growing tension between heritage preservation and urban development. For the athletes, Kipchoge Keino Stadium is not just brick and mortar but a sacred ground that embodies Kenya’s rich athletic history. They believe tearing it down would erode the legacy of a region that continues to inspire future generations of runners.
The court will now determine whether the redevelopment plans will proceed or if the historic stadium will be preserved as a lasting monument to Kenya’s sporting excellence.
