AFC Leopards chairman Dan Shikanda has revealed plans to host the future editions of the Mashemeji Derby at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsIn an interview with Lolwe TV, following the successful staging of the 97th Mashemeji Derby at the newly renovated Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, Shikanda expressed optimism about using more regional venues for the fixture.##NAJAVA_MECA_8965503##Monday’s encounter between the two sworn rivals saw the derby take place outside the traditional venues, Nyayo and Kasarani Stadium, in recent memory.”Once renovations at Bukhungu are complete, I am confident we will play Gor Mahia there,” Shikanda stated.The Gor Mahia legend said decentralising the fixture was one of the best ways of lifting the standards of the game in various regions.“We must begin supporting and playing in stadiums outside Nairobi. These facilities should not become white elephants. When such quality pitches are developed, they must be used to promote local football,” he offered.’Not even a miracle can hand Gor Mahia the league’ – Kenya Police head coachAddressing the issue of concerns raised on crowd control and Raila Odinga Stadium’s capacity to host the high-octane match, the Leopards boss was quick to commend fans for their conduct and tolerance.Initially, concerns had been raised over the suitability of the facility to host the match, but there were no reported incidents of hooliganism and trouble in controlling the crowd “We may be rivals on the pitch, but off it, we must work on building relationships,” Shikanda noted.“I watched Gor fans interact peacefully; they danced with Isukuti dancers and blended well with the few fans in attendance. That’s the spirit football should cultivate,” observed Shikanda.Despite his call to Leopards fans to travel to Homa Bay for the match, many opted to stay away, citing perceived unfairness in hosting the game far from Nairobi.Shikanda acknowledged the boycott, but remained steadfast in his belief that the match had to go on.”I told our supporters we would head to Homa Bay because there were no suitable pitches in Nairobi. Those who wanted to come were welcome; those who did not were free to stay behind. Our duty was not just to honour the fixture—we went there to play football, and we did exactly that.”Gor Mahia seek to appoint a foreign coach after receiving numerous applicationsBukhungu Stadium is currently undergoing major upgrades, including an expanded seating capacity, improved drainage, and a new playing surface, all intended to elevate the venue to modern standards.The facility is among several across the country being improved in a bid to spread football infrastructure development beyond the capital.
