Siaya County on Monday welcomed an inspection team from the Kenya Inter-County Sports and Cultural Association (KICOSCA) as it seeks to host this year’s KICOSCA Games, slated for November 2025. The visit marked a significant step in assessing the county’s readiness to host the national event that attracts thousands of participants from across the 47 counties.
The inspection began with a courtesy meeting at the County Headquarters, where the team engaged with senior county officials from the Department of Sports, Culture, and Tourism. Discussions focused on logistics, facility readiness, accommodation, and Siaya’s vision for hosting a successful and inclusive event.
After the meeting, the KICOSCA delegation embarked on a physical tour of proposed venues, led by Mr. John Angawa, the Director of Sports in Siaya County, and accompanied by officers from the Tourism Department.
The first stop was the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Siaya Town, a key facility expected to host the main athletics events and the grand opening ceremony if the county wins the hosting bid. The inspection team assessed the playing surface, seating capacity, changing rooms, and ongoing renovations aimed at boosting the stadium’s capacity to meet national standards. Mr. Angawa assured the team that upgrade works were on schedule and would be completed well ahead of the games.
Next, the team visited Maranda High School, where they toured the expansive grounds and boarding facilities. The school’s sports fields, dormitories, and dining facilities were deemed ideal for hosting several sporting disciplines, including football and volleyball, as well as accommodating visiting teams.
The third inspection site was Nyamira Girls High School, which was proposed for indoor sports and additional accommodation. The delegation was impressed by the school’s infrastructure and its proximity to the other venues.
The final stop of the day was at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST). The university was lauded for its modern facilities, including halls ideal for cultural showcases, indoor games, and conference spaces. The team noted that the institution could play a crucial role in hosting both sports and cultural activities during the event.
Speaking after the tour, Mr. Angawa expressed confidence in Siaya’s readiness. “We are proud to showcase what Siaya has to offer. From sporting infrastructure to hospitality and culture, we believe we are more than ready to host the 2025 KICOSCA Games,” he said.
The inspection team is expected to present its findings and recommendations to the KICOSCA National Council, with a final announcement on the host county anticipated in the coming weeks.
If successful, Siaya County will make history by hosting the games for the first time—an opportunity that promises to spotlight its growing reputation as a sporting and cultural destination in Kenya.
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