Domestic football competitions are set to face disruptions after the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) announced the temporary unavailability of key stadiums and training facilities as preparations intensify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In a statement issued February 12, FKF President Hussein Mohammed said the closures are necessary to allow for inspections, upgrades and improvement works required to meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards ahead of the continental tournament.
Kenya is currently hosting a CAF technical inspection mission as part of readiness checks for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2027, which the country will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
According to Mohammed, the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadium will be unavailable, alongside the under-construction Talanta Sports City. The facilities are under inspection, he said.
Ulinzi Sports Complex, Kenya Academy of Sports grounds, Police Sacco Stadium, Utalii College grounds and other designated training sites earmarked for the tournament are also under review.
CAF experts are assessing pitch quality, safety and security measures, infrastructure readiness and overall venue management to ensure the facilities meet required standards.
Mohammed said the ongoing inspections and subsequent renovation works will render several facilities temporarily unavailable for domestic league matches and team training.
“This will inevitably disrupt league fixtures, competitions and training programmes, including the need for venue changes and schedule adjustments,” he said.
The development is expected to affect the FKF Premier League, National Super League and other domestic competitions, prompting league organisers and clubs to seek alternative venues or adjust match calendars.
Some clubs that rely on Kasarani and Nyayo for home fixtures may relocate matches to smaller regional stadiums, which could affect match-day revenues and fan turnout.
FKF urged stakeholders and football fans to be patient, describing the inconvenience as temporary and necessary for the long-term growth of the game.
“While this period presents short-term challenges, these measures are necessary and unavoidable. Kenyans are urged to brace themselves for the temporary inconvenience, which is being undertaken in the national interest and in full compliance with CAF requirements,” the statement read.
The federation said the works are expected to deliver modern stadiums and training facilities aimed at improving domestic competitions, enhancing player development and strengthening football structures in the country.
Preparations for AFCON 2027 have gathered momentum in recent months, with the government committing resources to upgrade existing facilities and fast-track construction of new infrastructure, including Talanta Sports City, which is expected to serve as the country’s flagship venue for the tournament.
FKF said it is working with CAF, the government, league organisers and other stakeholders to coordinate planning and minimise the impact on local competitions.
The inspection mission forms part of CAF’s monitoring framework to ensure host nations meet timelines and technical requirements ahead of the tournament.
Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania won the bid to host AFCON 2027 under the “Pamoja” banner, marking the first time the East African region will jointly stage Africa’s premier football competition.
As preparations continue, domestic competitions are expected to adjust to accommodate the inspection and upgrade process ahead of the tournament.
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