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• Frank Rotich 4 days ago

AFCON 2027: Kenya races against time as Talanta Stadium nears completion

Kenya’s preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations has received a major boost after the Government confirmed that construction of Talanta Stadium is now 91 percent complete and remains on schedule for completion by the end of July.

The update was given by Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya  on Friday during an inspection tour of the multi-billion-shilling facility, which is expected to play a central role when Kenya co-hosts AFCON 2027 alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

While many questions have been raised in recent months over Kenya’s readiness to host Africa’s biggest football tournament, the Government now says the focus has shifted from planning to final delivery.

According to Mvurya, the Government has adopted a whole-of-government approach to ensure the project meets Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards within the required timelines.

The stadium’s three training pitches are also nearing completion, currently standing at 87 percent, with grass already planted on the main pitch ahead of testing and stitching works expected in the coming months.

Final installations including floodlights, landscaping, fencing, water systems and electricity connectivity are also progressing steadily as contractors move into the last phase of construction.

The Government says continuous engagement with CAF inspectors has helped ensure the project remains compliant with international standards at every stage, avoiding costly redesigns or delays.

Attention is also turning to the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, where renovation works began a month ago as Kenya prepares to have multiple facilities ready before the continental showpiece.

However, discussions are still ongoing between the Government and CAF regarding a proposal to install 61 skyboxes at Kasarani Stadium.

Sports Kenya’s technical team has warned that implementing the proposal in its current form could interfere with key existing structures and potentially delay renovation timelines by turning the facility into a fresh construction site.

Despite the challenges, the Government insists Kenya remains firmly on course to deliver the required infrastructure before the tournament kicks off in 2027.

Mvurya also expressed confidence in the progress being made by Harambee Stars, saying AFCON 2027 will provide Kenya with a rare opportunity to showcase not only its sporting talent, but also its ability to host a world-class event on the continental stage.