Boost security at Kasarani

Cases of stolen vehicles, vandalism and break-ins of cars during matches at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, especially at night, are becoming a major concern for fans.

Sports Kenya, events organisers and the police must work in tandem to tackle this problem, now that the country is preparing to host major international competitions

For example, three cars were stolen and cases of vandalism or break-ins reported during the Women’s African Nations Volleyball Championship held from August 25 to September 4 this year at the stadium and the Kenya Basketball Federation Men’s Premier League final between Nairobi City Thunder and Kenya Ports Authority on October 2.

Several mugging cases were reported during the championships that went into the night, with thugs taking advantage of lack of security lights from the stadium to Thika Superhighway for fans using public transport.

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The police have cited lack of adequate cooperation from Sports Kenya and event organisers regarding security when major events are being staged at MISC. There is no proper documentation of vehicles coming in and out and no CCTV cameras and proper security lighting system within and outside the arena. 

Additionally, the short notification for security from event organisers has on many occasions led to inadequate preparations from the police, especially when those bent on committing crime adopt sophisticated methods of stealing or vandalising vehicles.

It’s unacceptable that several letters have been written to Sports Kenya regarding the security operation at MISC and CCTV cameras coverage, but nothing has been forthcoming. 

The country is preparing to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2029 World Athletics Championships so Kenya cannot afford to condone laxity in matters of security at MISC and other venues.

Security for both local and touring fans will be paramount and nonnegotiable. But security should start from the lower profile local and international events being organised now.