An oblique view of Nyayo Stadium's surface on May 3, 2017. [PHOTO/the-star.co.ke]

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Nyayo Stadium has received an improved playing surface ahead of the much-awaited Mashemeji Derby.

This was confirmed on Wednesday by the stadium's general manager Julius Mbii.

The stadium has been undergoing renovations ahead of the IAAF World Under-18 Championships and the Africa Nations Championships (Chan) football competition expected to be staged there July this year and January next year respectively.

“We have over the last three or so months worked on the playing pitch and removed the weed which had stretched especially during this rainy season. Our team then managed to re-plant some grass in other areas and as you can see it is in good shape,” he said.

He however said that the venue is not yet ready for wholesome use and that the decision to host the Mashemeji Derby was an exceptional permission.

“When the request came in from the Kenyan Premier League people earlier this week, we were forced to consider it on an exceptional basis.

“Of course we will damage the grass after Sunday’s match but then we are ready to repair it and finish the remaining twenty percent of the works,” he added.