Ruto on Talanta Stadium: Hii ni noma, mtapenda

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President William Ruto has showcased the ongoing progress at the Talanta Stadium, describing the project as impressive and urging Kenyans to look forward to the completed facility.

In a video on TikTok, Ruto appeared facing the camera, walking through the stadium grounds as he highlighted the strides made in its construction.

Addressing critics, the President noted that while some were busy doubting the project or focusing on claims of mismanagement elsewhere, the government remained committed to delivering tangible results.

"They were busy cheating, doubts, we trusted the process.. Now look, see for yourselves, Talanta Stadium is right here. Hii ni noma sana, mtapenda," Ruto said in the video, emphasising that progress on the stadium is visible and undeniable.

The ongoing construction of Talanta Stadium is in its 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, is about 80 per cent complete, 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.

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 high-level government inspection and consultative meeting towards the end of January, 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.

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

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.