Talanta Sports City Project Cost Rises by Sh10.6 Billion

The construction of the Talanta Sports City, which includes the Raila Odinga International Stadium, has seen its budget increase by Sh10.6 billion.

The project's total cost has risen from an initial Sh35.2 billion to Sh45.8 billion. Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Salim Mvurya explained the reasons for this increase during a briefing, as the project reaches 87% completion.

Several factors contributed to the higher costs, including Value Added Tax (VAT), the Road Development Levy (RDL), and customs duties. Additionally, Import Declaration Fees (IDF) and other import charges for construction materials are added to the total budget.

The Sports CS noted that the project is not tax-exempt. The Ministry of Sports chose direct procurement for the project to meet strict delivery deadlines, despite the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) being awarded the tender.

Mr. Mvurya confirmed that all direct procurement procedures were followed throughout the process.

Currently, the remaining work at the Talanta Sports City includes the planting of grass in the main stadium and the construction of skyboxes. Further tasks include completing training facilities, a car park, and access roads to the site.

The stadium is part of Kenya's broader efforts to improve its sports infrastructure, particularly as it prepares to host international events in the coming years.

The Talanta Sports City project is expected to be completed in the near future, once the final touches on the training grounds and surrounding infrastructure are finished.