Talanta Stadium Nears Completion as Kenya Steps Up AFCON 2027 Preparations
By Peace Muthoka
NAIROBI, Kenya — August 19, 2026 — Kenya’s preparations to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have received a boost after the Raila Odinga International Stadium at the Talanta Sports Complex reached 94 per cent completion.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said the project has entered its final phase following a fresh inspection of the facility, with most of the major construction and auxiliary works now substantially complete.
According to Mvurya, the main stadium is largely ready, with attention now focused on finishing works and completing the remaining training facilities.
The main playing pitch has been completed and is awaiting stitching, while the two remaining training facilities are at 50 per cent and 40 per cent completion, respectively.
The CS said the progress has also received positive feedback from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which has been monitoring the facility’s readiness and compliance with required standards.
“Kenya is in good standing in its preparations for AFCON 2027, and we remain firmly focused on delivering this legacy project and the supporting infrastructure to the highest required standards,” Mvurya said.
As the stadium moves closer to completion, the Government is also addressing key requirements relating to security and spectator management.
Mvurya said 60 of the 91 planned turnstiles have already been installed, while work continues on skyboxes, media facilities and other critical installations.
The Government is also implementing CAF recommendations aimed at ensuring the stadium meets international standards for hosting major football matches.
At the same time, efforts have shifted beyond the stadium to the wider infrastructure needed to support the Talanta Sports Complex.
These include a railway connection to the complex, a dedicated power substation and feeder roads to improve access for spectators, teams, officials and other users.
Mvurya said the Government was satisfied with the progress made so far and would continue working with CAF to address the remaining requirements before the tournament.
The Raila Odinga International Stadium is among the key facilities expected to host matches during AFCON 2027, which will be jointly staged by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
With construction now at 94 per cent, the Government is under increasing pressure to complete the remaining works and ensure the facility is fully operational and compliant ahead of the continental tournament.
