• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 3 months ago

Kenya Railways outlines commuter rail plans for Nyayo and Talanta Stadiums ahead of AFCON 2027

Kenya Railways Corporation has announced new plans to improve commuter transport to Nyayo National Stadium and the upcoming Talanta Sports City as the country steps up preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Kenya will co-host the continental tournament alongside Tanzania and Uganda after the three nations won the hosting rights under the joint PAMOJA bid. With the matches expected to attract thousands of fans, the government says reliable transport will be key to the success of the event.

In a statement, Kenya Railways said the country is not only upgrading stadiums but also investing in supporting infrastructure to ease movement to and from match venues. In Kenya, AFCON games will be staged at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and the new Talanta Sports City, with Nyayo National Stadium serving as a training venue due to its central location.

“One of the key initiatives being undertaken includes the provision of an effective transport solution that will ensure easy access to and from the venues of the soccer event,” the statement read.

As part of the plan, the government intends to build a new railway station next to Nyayo National Stadium. In addition, a railway spur line will be constructed from Nairobi Central Station, passing through the Nyayo area and Kibera, all the way to Talanta Sports City.

Kenya Railways says the new line will offer fans and commuters a safe, reliable and affordable transport option while reducing traffic congestion during the tournament.

To allow the project to move forward, the corporation has asked individuals and businesses occupying railway land along the planned corridor to vacate. Kenya Railways warned that all illegal structures on the identified land will be demolished, noting that eviction notices were issued earlier.

“All encroachers were advised in good time to vacate the railway corridor to pave the way for the construction of the station and spur line,” the statement added.

The transport upgrade is part of a wider effort by Kenya to meet AFCON hosting standards and leave a lasting infrastructure legacy beyond the tournament.