My Hood: The estate that goes to sleep at 9pm

Stadium Estate, known to the locals as Stadi, came into being thanks to the construction of Afraha Stadium, which is strategically located close to the estate.

For those who grew up in Stadi in the earlier years, Afraha Stadium holds a special place in their hearts as it was here that they could watch live matches, play football and develop their talents.

Walking through the estates, one sees many apartments that seem to be fully occupied. One would expect nothing less as the stadium is within walking distance of the city centre for those who prefer to walk and a boda boda will not cost more than Sh50.

This convenience does not come cheap as a one bedroom here would go for around Sh15,000 to Sh20,000, so what you do not pay in transport is more than made up for in rent.

As you make your way through the estate you will notice that most of the people are young and this is most likely because many of them want to be close to the city centre for one reason or another.

Stadi is bordered by Freehold and Bondeni Estates. Although it is close to the CBD, it is usually a ghost town by 9pm as locals prefer to stay indoors.

Beatrice Chepkemoi has lived in Stadi for 21 years and has seen it all when it comes to the estate.

She says Afraha Stadium is the heart and soul of the area and she vividly remembers when Gor Mahia and Ulinzi Stars used to play there.

"Whenever we had big games at the stadiums, this place would be very active and many of us who had businesses here would benefit greatly. The deafening cheers, chants and jeers of the fans in the stadium brought life to the area. Apart from that, this place kept many youths in the area busy as they would often come to play and some of those who played here have gone on to play in some major leagues in the country and abroad," said Ms Chepkemoi.

With the stadium's renovations nearing completion, one can only hope that the stadium will continue to thrive.