Huge crowd turns up to view world cup trophy
Thousands of Nairobians turned out at the Kenya International Convention Center (KICC) to view the iconic world cup trophy and also get the opportunity to take photos.
Both young and old turned out in their numbers to get the once in a lifetime chance to view the iconic silverware.
Security was enhanced as Kenya Police and GSU officers patrolled around the grounds keeping vigil.
There were five security checkpoints before one reached the authentic, solid-gold FIFA World Cup trophy.
Fans arrived at KICC as early as 8 am, an hour earlier than the time the viewing was to begin underlining the popularity of football in the city.
Even school children were not left behind; the closure of schools helped them be part of this historic moment.
“I have seen the world cup on TV ever since the 1990 world cup. The chance to see it with my own two eyes and take a photo was a dream come true,” said Johnston Kariuki.
Kariuki brought along his wife and two boys to also see the iconic trophy, a memory the whole family will remember for years.
This is the second time the trophy was in the country, with organisers revealing it was a gift to the country as it marks 50 years of independence next month.
Apart from the viewing, there were other events at the KICC grounds including performances from local artistes, prizes to be won, games for children and free drinks for everyone who made it to the venue.
“Kenya may never win the World Cup but we are privileged to have had a chance to see the World Cup,“ said Mary Gathoni who travelled from Nakuru just to see the trophy.
Indeed the numbers underlined the love for the game and the fans hope that the national team will make it to the next world cup in 2018.
The trophy departs for Tanzania on Thursday before heading down to South Africa as it continues its global trotting ahead of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.