Bandari scramble for new home amidst Mbaraki Stadium closure for Ksh300 million renovations

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FOOTBALL Bandari scramble for new home amidst Mbaraki Stadium closure for Ksh300 million renovations

Festus Chuma 19:17 - 07.03.2024

Bandari FC is set to announce a new venue for home matches as Mbaraki Stadium closes for a six-month Ksh300 million renovation project.

Success-starved FKF Premier League side Bandari is on the brink of announcing alternative venue for their upcoming league home matches following the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA)'s decision to indefinitely close Mbaraki Stadium for extensive renovations. 

The decision comes in the wake of the stadium's scheduled closure after the eagerly anticipated league match between Bandari FC and Gor Mahia, set to take place this Saturday.

Mbaraki Sports Club, situated in the coastal city of Mombasa, has been the fortress for Bandari, but will soon undergo a six-month renovation project to elevate its facilities.

 The renovation, which has been allocated a whopping Ksh300 million by the KPA, aims to enhance the VIP seating area, lounges, and the overall stadium infrastructure, including the addition of a new tartan track for athletics.

In a statement released by KPA, the authority detailed the scope of the renovations: "This is to inform all our esteemed customers that the KPA Sports Club Mbaraki will undergo renovations of the main field and tartan track for athletics. The renovations of the club is in line with the Authority's commitment to provide standard sporting facilities that support the wellness of members."

 They further noted that the club would remain operational in other aspects during the renovation period, ensuring continued service delivery.

As Bandari scouts for alternative grounds, several options are under consideration, including Ukunda grounds, Moi Stadium in Voi, and Dawson Mwanyumba Stadium in Wundanyi. 

The latter has previously served as a home ground for another FKF Premier League team, Sofapaka FC, showcasing its suitability for hosting top-flight football matches.

The renovation promises to bring about a significant upgrade to Mbaraki grounds, introducing new terraces, modern dressing rooms, and a state-of-the-art tartan track for athletics, setting a new standard for sports facilities in the region.

Currently positioned third in the FKF Premier League table with 40 points from 23 matches, Bandari FC's quest for glory has been reignited. 

The search for a new home ground is not just a logistical necessity but also a pivotal moment in the club's history potentially influencing their performance and fan engagement in the coming months.

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