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Govt shares latest progress at Raila Odinga International Stadium ahead of AFCON 2027
23rd June, 2026 04:38 PM
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.
Government’s assurance
“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 in regards to the general staging of the continent’s premier football tournament.
“The Government continues to work closely with CAF through regular technical engagements to ensure compliance not only in infrastructure development, but also in operational readiness, governance, and institutional arrangements. The Local Organising Committee is expected to onboard additional personnel to strengthen preparations and enhance coordination as Kenya intensifies its readiness to successfully host the continent’s premier football tournament.” He added.
Promising progress
The latest visit at the iconic facility comes shortly after Sports Kenya has expressed optimism over the development of the playing surface at the venue following the third pitch inspection conducted by its technical team ahead of the fast-approaching AFCON 2027.
The inspection, which focused on assessing the condition and growth of the newly seeded turf, revealed encouraging signs of grass germination across the stadium’s playing field, marking another milestone in the construction of the facility earmarked for major international competitions.
According to Sports Kenya, the technical team reviewed the progress of the pitch and provided several recommendations aimed at ensuring the surface develops uniformly and meets the highest standards required for elite football competitions.
Meanwhile, CS Mvurya was accompanied by Sports Principal Secretary Sports Elijah Mwangi and senior team from Sports Kenya and KDF. The works at Talanta Stadium are expected to be finalised by the end of July 2026 in readiness for CAF inspection visit.
