Ruto Pledges to Personally Fund Upgrade of Soccer Stadium in Nairobi

President William Ruto has pledged to personally finance the construction and upgrade of the iconic Baba Dogo Grounds in Nairobi, a pitch credited with nurturing the talent of dozens of Kenyan footballers, including Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga.
The President made the commitment on Sunday while visiting the Harambee Stars’ changing rooms at the Kasarani International Stadium following their CHAN 2024 final group stage match against Zambia.
During the interaction, forward Austine Odhiambo, one of the breakout stars of the tournament, raised concerns about ongoing disputes over the land on which the Baba Dogo Grounds sit.
“I only have one request, Mr President,” Austine said. “I want to request you to look into the issue of our pitch.”
Ruto responded by assuring the team that the matter had previously been addressed, but was visibly surprised to learn the challenges persisted.
“No, do not worry. I will sort that for you all, even if it means using my personal finances. I will look into it,” he said, drawing loud applause from the players. “That is your pitch, and I will make sure it is done.”
The contested ground has long been a crucial space foryouth development in Nairobi’s informal settlements.
It has served as a training base for rising stars and a launchpad for professional careers, including that of Olunga, now playing for Qatar’s Al-Arabi.
The President’s intervention could be a major boost for grassroots sports in the country, especially with the growing concerns over theshrinking number of safe and accessible public playfields.
Ruto’s assurance also comes at a time when there is a renewed focus on reviving community-based talent academies and protecting public spaces that have historically played a key role in shaping Kenya’s sports ecosystem.
The contested ground saw Ruto order the immediate withdrawal of police officers stationed at a contested piece of land in Baba Dogo in July after a private developer secured the deployment of police officers to monitor a planned demolition.
Speaking during the launch of theClimate WorkX: Rehabilitating the Nairobi River programme, the President directed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Nairobi Regional Commander George Seda toensure the officers leave the area without delay.