Inside Ksh800M plan to turn Kisumu’s Moi Stadium into world-class facility
By Lutta Njomo, July 4, 2025Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong’o has confirmed the plan to upgrade Kisumu’s Moi Stadium into a world-class facility.
In a statement on Friday, July 4, 2025, Nyong’o indicated that President William Ruto had honoured the pledge to release Ksh800 million for the project.
As part of the process, Nyong’o confirmed that the Ministry of Sports had already deployed assessors on the ground. The governor indicated that the plan entails turning the stadium into a 25,000- or 30,000-seater facility.
“Following President Ruto’s directive, Kisumu will receive Ksh800 million for Moi Stadium’s redevelopment into a world-class, 25,000-30,000 seat facility!” Nyong’o’s statement read in part.
“A delegation from the Ministry of Sports is already on-site for assessments. This ambitious project will transform Kisumu into a regional sports hub, fostering talent and attracting major events. We’re grateful for the collaboration and can’t wait for the groundbreaking!” it added.
On June 18, 2025, President William Ruto announced plans to upgrade the facility. The president pointed out that the government is keen on upgrading the stadium to an ultra-modern sports facility that can accommodate various sporting activities.
According to the head of state, the upgrade would turn Kisumu into a regional sports hub.
Stripped of CHAN hosting rights
The new plans come after Kisumu’s dream of hosting international football matches in the upcoming CHAN 2025 and AFCON 2027 was dashed, as the county government admitted it had failed to meet FIFA standards for its stadiums.
Insufficient funding and long delays in upgrading Moi and Mamboleo stadiums have left the lakeside city unprepared, forcing officials to shelve their ambitious plans.
Under FIFA’s strict regulations, stadiums must meet specific criteria regarding seating, VIP facilities, changing rooms, walling, and ticketing booths—all of which Kisumu’s facilities lacked.
However, despite the initial enthusiasm, the necessary renovations and constructions were not completed on time. One of the primary challenges faced by the county in meeting the requirements was a severe lack of funds.
In the 2019 county budget, Kisumu allocated Ksh1.3 billion for the modernisation of its sports facilities, with a particular focus on the legendary Moi Stadium.
However, only about Ksh89 million was released, and little to no progress was made in the required upgrades.