Sports Ministry Reveals When Talanta Raila Odinga Stadium Will Be Completed

Talanta Raila Odinga International Stadium in Nairobi. PHOTO/ File

The Ministry of Sports and Creative Economy has revealed that the Talanta Raila Odinga International Stadium is on course for completion as Kenya intensifies preparations to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said the government is satisfied with the progress at the stadium following an inspection visit aimed at assessing ongoing construction works and ensuring that all requirements set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) are met.

“Today’s visit was a follow-up to assess progress and confirm the implementation of some of the areas we agreed on with CAF, ensuring that all requirements are met ahead of time,” Mvurya said.

The CS said the stadium project had recorded significant progress as Kenya works to deliver the required infrastructure before the continental tournament.

He added that the government had moved beyond financial obligations related to hosting the competition and was now focusing on improving facilities.

“Generally, I am very pleased with the progress that has been made at the Raila Odinga International Stadium. As we prepare for AFCON 2027, I want to assure Kenyans that we are making good progress,” he stated.

“Beyond paying the hosting fee, we have now seriously embarked on preparing our infrastructure,” Mvurya added.

Talanta Stadium Works Enter Final Stages Ahead Of AFCON 2027

Mvurya explained that several key components of the stadium development are advancing, with major attention now shifting to finishing works.

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He noted that mechanical and electrical installations remain among the final major areas requiring completion.

“This morning, I handed over two training grounds that will be used during AFCON. In this area, we will have three training grounds available for the tournament. The two training grounds handed over today are expected to take about two months to complete,” he said.

The Sports CS further confirmed that the playing surface at the stadium had improved significantly, with the pitch undergoing continuous monitoring to ensure it meets international standards required by CAF.

“The remaining major works are mainly mechanical and electrical. We have also inspected the pitch, and the grass has developed very well. Our team will continue ensuring that the germination process and the overall pitch standards comply with CAF requirements,” Mvurya added.

CAF Officer Deployed To Monitor Preparations

The government has also partnered with CAF officials to ensure that the stadium meets all technical expectations before the tournament.

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According to Mvurya, a CAF technical representative is already stationed in Nairobi to oversee daily developments.

“We also have a CAF technical officer already in Nairobi who will work on a daily basis to monitor preparations, assess progress, and provide reports to guide decision-making,” he said.

The ministry said the stadium project is part of wider infrastructure upgrades being undertaken ahead of AFCON 2027.

The works include improvements beyond the main stadium facility, covering transport and surrounding public infrastructure.

“Today’s work goes beyond the stadium. We are also undertaking other public works, including roads, rail scoping, and the perimeter wall,” Mvurya said.

He further announced that most of the major activities inside the stadium and several supporting projects are expected to be completed within the coming weeks.

“By the end of July, the main works inside the stadium and some of the auxiliary works should be completed,” the CS stated.

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