The Western part of Kenya is well known for producing some of the finest footballers in the country and is also home to notable clubs like Nzoia Sugar FC, Kakamega Homeboyz and Bungoma Superstars.Some of the footballers who have played for Nzoia are former Ulinzi Stars head coach Bernard Mwalala, Sofapaka team manager Hillary Echesa, former footballer James Wakhungu Situma and former Nairobi City Stars player Noah Abich.Others are Brian Otieno (Bandari FC), Kevin Oluoch (coach Migori Youth FC), Lawrence Juma (Gor Mahia) among others.Murang’a Seal announce first off-season signingIt is a long-standing tradition that when one generation exits the stage, the young blood steps in to fill the shoes for continuity.With that in mind, one would expect that the region has state of the art facilities where talent is developed, but far from it, the reality on the ground paints a different picture.Sudi Stadium in Bungoma County, which is managed by Nzoia Sugar Company, is the home ground to former Football Kenya Federation Premier League side Nzoia Sugar.##NAJAVA_MECA_8256638##The stadium was named after Bukusu paramount chief, Sudi Namachanja, who died in 1971.The arena which is situated near Nzoia Sugar Factory has a well-tended pitch with lush green grass, and is fenced with wire mesh.The changing room for teams is a small structure shared by the hosts and visiting teams.Free spending Tusker hit the market for Police right-backThere are trees around the stadium under which fans can sit and enjoy a match during the hot and dry weather. But the same cannot be said during the rainy season.Nzoia, who were relegated from the FKFPL last season mainly use Sudi Stadium for their home matches, and also training.Mozzart Sport visited the facility during the Western Region Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) Term Two games and the fans turnout was nothing short of astonishing.##NAJAVA_MECA_8256621##The stands were packed with enthusiastic fans, their faces shielded from the relentless sun by makeshift umbrellas and hats.It was evident that the people of Bungoma County have a deep-rooted passion for sports. The sheer number of spectators present that day served as a powerful reminder of the potential impact a fully completed stadium could have on sports development in the region.##GALERIJA##Residents argued that the stadium, once completed, will not only provide a platform for local talent to flourish but also contribute to the overall development of the region.They believe that it has the potential to attract sporting events, boost tourism, and create employment opportunities.”We have been waiting for this stadium for far too long. It’s a project that would greatly benefit our youth and the community as a whole. We urge the relevant authorities to prioritize its completion,” Jane Wanyonyi, a resident, called out.Wetang’ula urges Murkomen to crack down on FKF once approved“We are concerned about the pace of this construction. We are frustrated. We love sports but we lack proper facilities. It is disheartening,” Robert Wafula offered.“When you look around, you can see how many people are willing to put a stop to their business to come watch the matches. Imagine if we had a good stadium. Please help these people,” Mahlon Khisa expressed.“I have never failed to turn up for any match here. I believe that one day I will be a great footballer. But where will I train? Where will I showcase my talent? It is discouraging,” Brian Shieva, an aspiring footballer, told Mozzart Sport.There has been little improvement of the stadium because of the financial challenges that Nzoia Sugar has faced over the years.
