Talanta Stadium enters final construction phase

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The ongoing construction of Talanta Stadium has entered the final phases, bringing Kenya one step closer to unveiling what will be the country’s largest purpose-built venue for football, rugby, and other major sporting events.

The project, which began in early 2024, has reached almost 80 per cent completion, marking a significant milestone and setting the pace for the final stages of work.

With handover scheduled for March 2026, the stadium is on track to become a centrepiece for the country's sports infrastructure.

On-site, construction crews are making rapid progress on the playing surface, preparing the pitch with state-of-the-art drainage systems and turf to meet international standards.

**A section of the stadium already fitted with seats/MINA**

Seating installation is advancing steadily, with thousands of seats already fixed across three tiers of the stadium.

Meanwhile, the exterior emblems, including Kenya’s distinctive shield motifs, have been mounted, giving the structure its signature identity.

Roof construction is ongoing, with the structural framework nearing completion in preparation for the installation of the spectator canopies.

Inside, technical systems, broadcast facilities, and hospitality suites are being installed.

**A wide-angle view of the stadium exterior, showing the Kenyan emblems on the façade and ongoing landscaping works/MINA**

A high-level government inspection and consultative meeting led by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo brought together senior officials from the Defence, Sports, Broadcasting and Telecommunications, and Interior ministries.

The team was on the site to "comprehensively review the status of project implementation."

"The engagement prioritised enhanced inter-agency coordination, evaluated adherence to agreed timelines and performance benchmarks," Omollo said.

**Roof construction ongoing at the Talanta Stadium on January 23, 2016/MINA**

They also addressed emerging operational, safety and security considerations, with a view to ensuring seamless execution and timely delivery of the project.

Principal Secretaries Patrick Mariru (Defence), Elijah Mwangi (Sports), and Stephen Isaboke (Broadcasting and Telecommunications) were present, emphasising the strategic importance of the stadium not only as a sporting venue but also as a landmark national infrastructure project.

President William Ruto confirmed that the stadium will be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium once completed, in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Ruto has framed the stadium project as part of broader efforts to expand sporting infrastructure and provide opportunities for youth, and at times expressed confidence that the facility will be ready ahead of key national benchmarks like the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Beyond the structural development, teams are focusing on finishing touches that will elevate the fan experience, including the completion of access walkways, hospitality areas, and facilities for media and broadcast partners.

**Construction workers doing the final touches on the access walkways/MINA**

The stadium’s design incorporates modern amenities, including luxury skyboxes, a presidential pavilion, and all-weather seating, ensuring that it meets international standards for both athletes and spectators.

The stadium is expected to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and will serve as a hub for major national tournaments, cultural events, and community engagement programs.

**The ongoing works on the playing surface at the Talanta Stadium on January 23, 2026/COURTESY**

Once completed, the 60,000-seat arena will be the largest stadium in Kenya, providing a venue capable of hosting world-class events and attracting international attention.

Officials remain confident that all final construction works, interior installations, and systems testing will be completed in time for the scheduled handover, allowing for commissioning and trial events ahead of major competitions.