State to spend Sh57 million for stadiums upgrade ahead of Afcon

The government will spend over Sh57 billion in the coming months to upgrade stadiums ahead of the continental sporting bonanza, Afcon, Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has announced.

Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Sports and Culture on Thursday, the CS highlighted an elaborate plan to spruce up five stadiums to meet the international requirements by early next year.

According to the plan, the government will invest Sh44.7 billion in the construction of the Talanta Sports Complex, one of the stadiums earmarked for the continental tournament.

Tuya confirmed that Sh2 billion has already been paid to the Chinese firm contracted to undertake the project.

Works at the stadium are 37 per cent complete and are scheduled to come to a close by February 28, 2026.

The CS was briefing Members of Parliament on the status of key infrastructure projects being implemented ahead of the Confederation of African Football-sanctioned African Nations Championship (Chan) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya is set to co-host.

Among the major investments highlighted is the phased rehabilitation of the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

The first phase will cost Sh3.6 billion and aims to ready the stadium for Chan, which is set to take place in August 2025.

An additional Sh3.1 billion will be required for the second phase to upgrade the stadium to meet Afcon standards.

Renovations at Nyayo National Stadium are also underway, with an allocation of Sh1.1 billion.

Of this amount, Sh200 million has already been disbursed for completed works.

Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, another Chan venue, is expected to consume more than Sh3.5 billion, with Sh300 million already spent.

The Committee also heard that renovations at the Police Sacco Stadium and Ulinzi Sports Complex are being undertaken at costs of Sh582 million and Sh490 million respectively.

These facilities have been designated as training grounds for teams participating in Chan, following recommendations by CAF.

CS Tuya assured the Committee that significant progress has been made across all project sites and expressed confidence in meeting the deadlines set by CAF.

“The hosting of Afcon is not only a matter of national pride but also an economic opportunity that will elevate Kenya’s stature in the international sporting arena,” she said.

The CS urged football fans to be responsible and avoid vandalism of stadium facilities, warning that such actions incur significant costs to taxpayers.

“As the host nation, Kenya will have the privilege of participating in the tournament, which will serve as a major source of motivation for our footballers and a spectacle for fans,” she added.

Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama, who chairs the Committee, pledged the panel’s support in ensuring steady funding for the timely completion of all infrastructure.

“We recognise the immense value these championships bring to our country and are committed to facilitating the smooth implementation of these projects,” Wanyama said.

Suba South MP Caroli Omondi emphasised the importance of integrating adequate medical facilities in all stadiums under construction and renovation, noting their critical role during major tournaments.

The Committee also engaged with the leadership of Athletics Kenya to discuss ongoing efforts to promote athletics and improve the welfare of athletes.