National preparations for AFCON 2027
President William Ruto has expressed confidence in Kenya’s preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This follows a briefing from the Ministry of Sports and other stakeholders regarding the status of preparations for the continental football tournament. The meeting, held at State House, Nairobi, provided updates on infrastructure development and other key milestones.
Kenya will jointly host the tournament with Uganda and Tanzania. This marks the first time these three East African nations will co-host the Africa Cup of Nations. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) awarded the hosting rights to the three countries, making it the first time the tournament will be staged in the East African region.
President Ruto noted that the stadia infrastructure development is on course. He also mentioned that preparations for the national team, Harambee Stars, have begun. The government is committed to providing the necessary support to ensure the team represents the country effectively at the event.
Stadium modernisation efforts
The three co-hosting nations have initiated upgrades to sports infrastructure, including stadiums and training facilities, to meet CAF’s hosting requirements. The government has consistently stated that the construction and renovation of key sporting venues are proceeding on schedule.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo provided an update on the ongoing modernisation of Afraha Stadium in Nakuru. The project aims to expand the stadium’s seating capacity from 8,200 to between 13,000 and 15,000 in intermediate phases, with a long-term goal of 20,000 seats. Other works at Afraha Stadium include the construction of modern pavilions, installation of high-mast floodlights for night matches, and the development of an all-weather Tartan athletics track. The football pitch is also being upgraded to meet international competition standards, alongside improvements to parking and sanitation facilities.
PS Omollo indicated that the modernisation of Afraha Stadium is part of the government’s plan to upgrade facilities that will serve as training venues during AFCON 2027. The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is implementing this modernisation project. Upon completion, the facility is expected to enhance Nakuru’s position as a regional sports hub, foster local talent, and stimulate sports tourism and economic growth.
Separately, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki inspected the 60,000-seater Raila Odinga Stadium along Ngong Road, Nairobi, which is nearing completion. He noted that this is the first international stadium built in the country since the completion of Kasarani Stadium in 1987. The Deputy President also disclosed that 31 other stadia across the country are undergoing upgrades.
The government has also issued a progress report on the modernisation and expansion of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Siaya. This facility is being transformed into a multi-sport complex. Phase II of the project is progressing through a joint partnership between the National Government and the County Government of Siaya. Key upgrades include expanding the seating capacity from 5,000 to between 15,000 and 20,000 spectators. The redevelopment will also feature a standard 110-metre by 68-metre football pitch and an eight-lane, 400-metre tartan athletics track. Structural steel columns are being erected to support a full-roof canopy, aiming to improve the match-day experience and bring the facility closer to international standards.
According to Omollo, this project is part of a broader government strategy to invest in modern sports infrastructure to support Kenya’s preparations for AFCON 2027, create opportunities for youth development, and nurture sporting talent. The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration is supporting the project through coordination of national government functions, stakeholder engagement, and security planning to ensure smooth implementation and the successful hosting of future sporting events. Phase I of the project, which delivered a FIFA-standard football pitch, VIP pavilions, changing rooms, and basketball courts, was fully financed by the County Government of Siaya.
Other ongoing sports infrastructure projects include the construction of the 10,000-seater Migori Stadium, the redevelopment of Thika Stadium, the modernisation of Moi Stadium in Kisumu, and the expansion of Gusii Stadium to a 14,000-seat capacity. These initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to creating a lasting sporting legacy beyond AFCON 2027.
Read Also
Source: the-star.co.ke
