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Govt allocates Ksh26.4 billion to boost sports infrastructure and AFCON 2027 preparations
23rd June, 2026 06:34 PM
The Kenyan government has earmarked Ksh26.4 billion for the development of sports infrastructure and the advancement of the country’s sporting agenda, President William Ruto has announced.
The funding is expected to facilitate the completion of 39 sports stadia across the country, a move aimed at enhancing access to quality sporting facilities and nurturing talent at both grassroots and elite levels.
Speaking on the government’s commitment to sports development after signing the Finance Bill 2026 into law at State House in Nairobi on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, President Ruto said the investment forms part of a broader strategy to position Kenya as a leading global sporting nation.
The allocation will also support Kenya’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the country is set to co-host alongside neighbouring East African nations. Upgrading sports venues and related infrastructure is expected to ensure the country meets international standards required for the continental tournament.
Rewarding athletes
Beyond infrastructure development, the funds will be used to reward Kenyan athletes who continue to excel on the international stage. The government intends to recognise and support sportsmen and women who have brought honour to the nation through outstanding performances in various disciplines.
Additionally, part of the allocation will facilitate the organisation and promotion of sports competitions and tournaments across the country. The initiative is expected to provide more opportunities for athletes to showcase their talents while strengthening the country’s sporting ecosystem.
“To strengthen Kenya’s position as a global sporting nation, Ksh26.4 billion has been allocated to complete 39 sports stadia in Kenya, prepare for AFCON in 2027, reward our outstanding sportsmen and women, who represent Kenya on the international sports stage and in sports competitions and tournaments nationwide,” Ruto said.
Getting ready for AFCON
The government’s investment comes at a time when Kenya is seeking to expand its sporting footprint beyond athletics and establish itself as a regional hub for major sporting events.
Ruto’s announcement comes shortly after the Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Salim Mvurya, on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, handed over two training grounds to the contractor for construction works at the Talanta Sports Complex, marking a key milestone in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations preparations.
Also, the CS checked the progress of the under-construction Raila Odinga International Stadium and expressed his satisfaction with the works done so far as Kenya races against time to stage a successful AFCON tournament alongside its neighbours Uganda and Tanzania.
Addressing sports journalists present at the construction site, Mvurya said the pitches are critical elements in supporting the AFCON 2027 preparations and hosting this tournament.
“I have conducted an inspection of the Raila Odinga International Stadium, and I am satisfied with the pace of works at the facility, with all major construction activities expected to be substantially completed by the end of July this year. Continuous monitoring, turf management, and landscaping works are ongoing at the main playing pitch and the football training grounds to ensure full compliance with CAF standards and requirements ahead of AFCON 2027,” Mvurya said.
The Cabinet Secretary further revealed that the national government of Kenya will continue working closely with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the relevant organs to ensure smooth operations regarding the general staging of the continent’s premier football tournament.
