Oparanya, Khalwale clash over cost of Bukhungu upgrade

Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya (third right) when he was inspecting on-going construction of Bukhungu stadium recently. BY BENJAMIN SAKWA

Governor Wycliffe Oparanya and Senator Boni Khalwale have differed over the cost of upgrading Bukhungu Stadium.

The county government is upgrading the stadium in three phases at a cost of Sh1 billion. The first phase, costing Sh399 million, is almost complete.

But the senator says the cost should be Sh700 million, which should be provided in one financial year, and that the county government has spent a longer time than necessary on the upgrade.

"Bukhungu Stadium needs a complete overhaul to become a modern international facility within one financial year, not what Oparanya is doing," said Dr Khalwale, who is seeking to unseat the governor.

He said if he was elected, he would ensure the upgrade was completed on time and also set up sports academies and improve the county's economy.

Khalwale said he would also build a stadium in Malinya, in Ikolomani constituency, and improve Mumias Complex to nurture talent.

"We will also seek out investors in the hospitality sector to build modern hotels to attract international sporting activities," he said.

Oparanya said Bukhungu Stadium would host indoor events, including basketball and athletics, after the upgrade. Currently, the stadium is used only for football and athletics.

"We will have natural grass in the field but for athletics, we will modify the track with rubber lanes to attract international competitions," he said. Rubber lanes will cost Sh200 million.

The stadium will also have a perimeter wall with an automated gate to ensure that people pay entry fees during sports events.