Pressure mounts as Mombasa Stadium project stalls amid AFCON push
MOMBASA, Kenya — Pressure is mounting on President William Ruto and the Mombasa County Government after construction of a modern stadium in the county stalled, despite earlier promises to fast-track the project.
Members of the Iko Wapi Zamani (IWZ) group visited the site and expressed shock that no visible construction work is ongoing, raising concerns over the future of the facility.
“We are surprised that since the promises were made, nothing is happening. Those responsible must act with urgency so that this stadium is completed,” said IWZ founder Mohamed Basawad.
Former stars speak out
Former AFC Leopards player Abdulrahman Baraza criticised leaders for making promises without follow-up.
“Leaders must go beyond talk and ensure the Mombasa stadium is completed. Other regions have built modern stadiums — why not us?” he posed.
Baraza said the facility is critical, especially as Kenya prepares to host matches during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where proper infrastructure will be key.
Lost opportunities for young talent
Former Mombasa Wanderers captain Nurein Noor (Acheke) said many football stars emerged from Mombasa due to access to playing grounds — a chance current youth are missing.
“We want this stadium completed so young players can be seen by scouts and build better futures,” he said.
Yusuf Kibwana, a former Nyoka FC player, warned that the shortage of playing fields is pushing many young people away from football and into social vices, including drug abuse.
Bigger than football
Veteran referee Awadh Barafa said completing the stadium would revive football in the Coast region and increase chances of local players being selected for national teams such as Harambee Stars and Harambee Starlets.
“We want to see more players from the Coast making it to national teams,” he said.
The bigger picture
The stalled project now raises serious questions about sports infrastructure readiness, especially with Kenya positioning itself for major continental tournaments.
For many in Mombasa, the issue is no longer just about a stadium —it’s about lost dreams, missed opportunities, and broken promises.