Go Harambee Stars, but are stadiums safe?

The Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup got off to a good start in Kakamega and Machakos. (Photo: BENJAMIN SAKWA)

The Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup got off to a good start in Kakamega and Machakos, with the national football team Harambee Stars beating Rwanda 2-0. It was a moment to savour, seeing thousands of Kenyans, irrespective of their political, cultural, and religious persuasions, turn up to watch Harambee Stars play at the refurbished Bukhungu Stadium. This is the way to go and fans should turn up in large numbers to support our team.

Unbelievable as it may seem, it was the first time Harambee Stars was playing at the facility in the country's 54-year history. With the usual venues - Moi International Sports Centre at Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadium-  shut down for renovation, Kakamega, Machakos, and Kisumu got the opportunity to host the regional tournament. The benefit of hosting such events is that they boost local businesses such as hotels because of the visitors.