Kenya is laying the groundwork for what it hopes will be a defining chapter in its sporting history, as preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 accelerate across key venues.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya made the remarks during a high-level inspection of the Raila Amollo Odinga International Stadium at the Talanta Sports City Complex on Tuesday, describing the progress as evidence of the country’s determination to deliver a world-class tournament.
“The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027) presents Kenya, together with the PAMOJA countries, a defining moment to showcase our readiness, capacity, and global competitiveness, in line with the vision of H.E. President William Ruto,” Mvurya said during the site visit.
Accompanied by Defence Cabinet Secretary Hon. Soipan Tuya, permanent secretaries, and senior officials from Sports Kenya and the Ministry of Defence, Mvurya noted that the stadium project was now 85 per cent complete.
“We are impressed by the steady progress. The contractor is working around the clock to finalise external works and the training facilities by the end of February,” he said. “This will pave the way for subsequent auxiliary works to be undertaken seamlessly.”
Mvurya highlighted the strategic significance of Talanta Sports City, emphasising that the stadium and associated facilities would set a new benchmark for sports infrastructure in Kenya. “This is not just about hosting AFCON; it is about creating a legacy for our athletes and communities,” he said.
Beyond Talanta, Mvurya confirmed that seven other critical projects related to AFCON 2027 were at advanced stages of construction.
“We have reviewed the progress of these seven key projects, all of which are vital to the successful delivery of the tournament,” he said.
“Each site demonstrates the government’s commitment to quality and timely completion.”
The Cabinet Secretary reiterated that a whole-of-government approach was being employed to ensure Kenya’s comprehensive preparedness.
“We are not leaving anything to chance,” Mvurya said. “All ministries, agencies, and stakeholders are working in concert to guarantee that every aspect of our hosting responsibilities meets international standards.”
During the inspection, Mvurya and his team examined seating arrangements, pitch quality, training facilities, and auxiliary areas, ensuring that each element adhered to CAF regulations.
“The safety, comfort, and experience of players, officials, and fans is our top priority,” he noted. “We are ensuring that every corner of the stadium is fit for purpose.”
Mvurya also spoke on timelines and deadlines for completion. “Our goal is to have the stadium fully operational and certified by CAF well before the preparatory matches begin,” he said.
“The external works, including parking, access roads, and training pitches, will be completed by the end of February, leaving ample time for testing and commissioning.”
On the human resource front, Mvurya emphasised capacity building and engagement with volunteers and officials.
“We are training staff, referees, and volunteers to ensure smooth operations during the tournament,” he said. “Preparation is not only physical infrastructure but also human readiness.”
The Cabinet Secretary also stressed the importance of sustainability and maintenance. “These projects are designed to serve Kenya long after AFCON 2027. We are building facilities that will nurture athletes for decades to come,” Mvurya added.
Speaking about challenges, Mvurya admitted that tight deadlines and logistics posed pressures, but expressed confidence in the government’s coordination.
“There will always be challenges in projects of this magnitude,” he said. “But with a coordinated approach and constant oversight, we are confident we will meet our targets.”
He also acknowledged CAF’s role in benchmarking quality standards. “Preparatory engagements with CAF are scheduled soon, and we are ready to demonstrate our compliance and readiness,” Mvurya said. “We want to ensure that CAF’s expectations are exceeded, not just met.
Mvurya concluded by commending the project teams and stakeholders. “The work on the ground reflects dedication and professionalism. From contractors to government officials, everyone is focused on making Kenya proud,” he said.
“AFCON 2027 is not just a tournament; it is a testament to our ability to host events of continental significance.”
The inspection included PSs Elijah Mwangi (Sports), Dr Patrick Mariru (Defence), SA Sports; Evans Achoki, MOD Brigadier Sokobe, Sports Kenya; DG Timothy Kilimo, and Chair Hon. Mark Lomunokol, among other senior officials. Mvurya underscored the value of this multi-agency engagement, noting: “When government works together, we can achieve world-class results.”
With just over a year to the tournament, Kenya’s preparations are gathering pace. Mvurya’s inspection offers reassurance that both infrastructure and operational readiness are being treated with the urgency and attention they demand, positioning Kenya to deliver a successful AFCON 2027.
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