Kenya has taken a giant step towards early preparation to host the Africa Cup of Nations in 2027 after the Cabinet approved renovations and construction of key facilities.

In a meeting chaired by President William Ruto in Kisumu on Tuesday, October 9, the cabinet approved the renovation of Nyayo Stadium, the Moi International Sports Complex, and the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret.

Construction, renovation projects

Already, the Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Ababu Namwamba, had handed over the facilities to the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) for renovation.

“In a bid to elevate Kenya’s standing as a sporting powerhouse, the Cabinet approved various construction and renovation projects of facilities for hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027.

“The ambitious plan includes building the Talanta Sports Complex (Jamhuri, Nairobi) and extensive renovations of Nyayo National Stadium, Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, and Kipchoge Keino Stadium,” a Cabinet dispatch read.

The construction of the Talanta Complex also received the government’s green light.

“The administration’s signature project under this initiative will be the Talanta Sports Complex, a 60,000-seater football stadium featuring ample parking, world-class training pitches, a commercial hub named the ‘Hustler Bazaar, an arena, and a dedicated public transport terminus,” the dispatch added.

CAF’s standards

The improvement of the standards of the mentioned facilities is meant to meet the Confederation of Africa (CAF) requirements.

“These uprisings are designed to meet the high standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for this prestigious continental event.

“Beyond AFCON 2027, these initiatives will position Kenya as a competitive sporting destination and unlock economic opportunities while fostering sports development,” it continued.

In the end, the stadiums will have extra facilities that are aimed at making them viable to host international matches.

“The renovation efforts for Moi International Sports Centre (Kasarani), Nyayo National Stadium, and Kipchoge Keino Stadia will include pitch rehabilitation, enhanced facilities, ICT infrastructure, canopy installation, and Hustler Bazaars,” the Cabinet approval concluded.