• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 3 months ago

President Ruto tells off critics as Talanta Stadium nears completion

President William Ruto has dismissed critics questioning the construction of Talanta Sports City, saying the progress on the stadium speaks for itself as Kenya prepares to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The President shared a video of himself touring the site, expressing satisfaction with the quality of work and the speed at which the project is moving. He noted that many people had doubts at the beginning, but the visible progress has now silenced the sceptics.

“They were busy treating doubts. We trusted the process. Now look, see for yourselves. Talanta Stadium is right here. Hii ni noma sana, mtapenda (This is very good, you will like it),” Ruto said.

Talanta Sports City, located at Jamhuri Grounds along Ngong Road, is now more than 80 per cent complete as of February 2026. The ultra-modern 60,000-seater stadium is being fast-tracked to serve as a key venue for AFCON 2027.

Once completed, the President believes the facility will impress both athletes and fans, offering a world-class stage for sports and entertainment events in the country.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya also expressed confidence in the project, saying the steady progress shows Kenya’s readiness to jointly host AFCON 2027 with partner nations under the PAMOJA arrangement.

The stadium is designed mainly for football and rugby and does not include an athletics track, a move aimed at creating a closer and more exciting atmosphere for fans. The project also features three training pitches, luxury skyboxes and integrated rail links to improve access on match days.

Funded through a Sh44.7 billion infrastructure bond, Talanta Sports City is Kenya’s biggest sports investment in decades. Major structural works are expected to be completed by March 2026, bringing the country a step closer to hosting Africa’s biggest football tournament.