A cloud of dust spreads across the field at the Kamukunji Sports Ground as the FKF Division One team, St Joseph's Youth Football Team, go about their evening training session. Not far away, a group of other youngsters are engaged in a friendly game on the basketball court.

When it comes to football pitches that have played a key role in the development of talent in Nakuru, Kamukunji Sports Ground must be mentioned.

Kamukunji grounds where local tournaments thrive.

Photo credit: Purity Kinuthia/Mtaa Wangu

Aside from Afraha Stadium, which is currently undergoing renovation, this field has produced many football stars as it boarders estates like Bondeni, Lumumba, Paul Machanga, Kivumbini and Shauri Yako in Nakuru East.

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According to former national team midfielder and Bondeni academy coach Jefferey Njunguna alias Kasisi, he is among those who started their careers on the football pitch.

Bondeni academy coach, Jeffrey Njunguna alias Kasisi during a training session at Kamukunji grounds.

Photo credit: Purity Kinuthia/Mtaa Wangu

Kamukunji, he says, has played a key role in providing a training ground for teams, growing local leagues and a playing ground for Division One teams from Nakuru.

"I used to play here as a teenager, from inter-estate matches to playing for the national team. Looking back, I would say this ground has produced players that have fed most teams in Kenya, including notable players like John 'MO' Muriuki. The mention of the Kamukunji ground brings back memories of the good old days of football and the birth of future stars," says Kasisi during a training session with the St Joseph's team.

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His sentiments are echoed by Kamukunji ground manager Odac Hassan, who says tournaments played at the ground have been graced by notable personalities.

Kamukunji sports ground manager Odac Hassan.

Photo credit: Purity Kinuthia/Mtaa Wangu

For instance, the inter-estate tournament in December 2023 was graced by Vice President Rigathi Gachagua, Governor Susan Kihika and area MP David Gikaria among other dignitaries.

In addition to this a good number of teams have sprung up due to the availability of the pitch.

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However, he is quick to point out that while they are celebrating the efforts made in the rehabilitation of the ground, there is still a lot of work to be done in order for the ground to be in good condition for both the players and the fans.

"Our biggest challenge is access to water at the facility. As you can see, the pitch has grass patches in some areas, while other areas are dusty. We need to pour water during the tournaments to alleviate the drought so that the matches can run smoothly. If the county can help us get more grass on the pitch, level the pitch, get access to water and more terraces for the fans, we would be grateful," says Hassan.

Wanjirukinuthia20@gmail.com

Kamukunji Sports Ground: Nurturing talent despite bad conditions

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Purity Kinuthia