The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the Pamoja Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 has concluded a two-day technical assessment of Kenya’s football pitches.
The inspection was carried out in collaboration with Aaron Mark Cross, a Pitch Management Expert from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
During the exercise, FKF President Hussein Mohamed said six major venues across the country were inspected.
These include Talanta City Stadium, Nyayo National Stadium, Moi Sports Centre Kasarani, Ulinzi Sports Complex, Utalii Grounds, and the Kenya Academy of Sports training facilities.
The assessment focused on the quality, maintenance, and readiness of the pitches to host international-standard matches.
The LOC is working closely with CAF and other stakeholders to deliver high-quality playing surfaces for the 2027 Pamoja AFCON tournament.
LOC chairperson Nicholas Musonye emphasised the importance of the exercise, noting that “these assessments are critical in ensuring that all our venues meet CAF’s stringent standards.”
He added that the review will help develop detailed maintenance and enhancement plans that guarantee high-quality playing surfaces for both the Pamoja AFCON and domestic league games.
“The findings from the inspections will guide upgrades and maintenance interventions, ensuring that the pitches not only meet international requirements but also remain in optimal condition for local league matches and future tournaments,” said Mohamed.
CAF’s involvement provides technical expertise and international benchmarking, which is expected to improve the quality of Kenya’s football infrastructure ahead of 2027.
The assessment examined turf quality, drainage, pitch dimensions, and player safety measures.
Musonye also cautioned football fans to expect disruptions in league fixtures during the preparation period. He said some local league matches will be moved from their regular venues as Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums, undergo upgrades immediately after the HSBC tournament this weekend.
Nyayo is set to receive a canopy, while Kasarani’s playing surface will be replaced.
“We are ready for AFCON, and when we close some of these venues, it’s not intentional. We want the best for the legacy of this country,” Musonye stated.
The exercise forms part of the LOC’s broader strategy to prepare Kenya for hosting a successful Pamoja AFCON, focusing on world-class facilities, logistics, and operational readiness.
The committee is coordinating with CAF, the Ministry of Sports, football clubs, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless delivery.
LOC officials reiterated that the pitch enhancement plans will have long-term benefits for Kenyan football.
“Beyond AFCON 2027, these improvements will support local leagues, youth tournaments, and training programs, creating a lasting legacy for the sport in the country,” the LOC said.
With just over a year to go before the tournament, the completion of the CAF-led technical assessments marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s preparations and signals the country’s commitment to hosting a world-class continental football event.
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