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FIFA-approved VAR technology nears introduction in Kenyan stadiums
12th May, 2026 02:34 PM
The introduction of FIFA-approved Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in Kenyan stadiums has emerged as one of the key developments expected to transform the country’s sports landscape, following fresh engagements between the Kenyan government and French sports investors during the ongoing Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi.
Africa Forward Summit
Speaking after hosting a high-level delegation from France, Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, said Kenya is keen on modernising its sporting infrastructure through strategic international partnerships aimed at improving the quality of competitions and officiating standards across the country. The development comes as Kenya, alongside Tanzania and Uganda are preparing to stage the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027).
The delegation was led by Sophie Lorant, president of France Sports Expertise, alongside technical experts and investors in the sports sector. Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between Kenya and France to accelerate investment in sports development.
Among the major proposals discussed was the installation of FIFA-verified VAR systems in Kenyan stadia, a move expected to significantly improve decision-making during domestic matches and major tournaments. The talks also explored upgrading pitch equipment and redesigning sports venues using modern engineering solutions to support the growth of multiple sporting disciplines in Kenya.
VAR technology
”Our discussions with the delegation, led by Sophie Lorant, President of France Sports Expertise, revolved around encouraging investments in sports through introduction of FIFA-verified VAR technology in our stadia, the upgrading of pitch equipment and enhancement of the stadia infrastructure through modern design and engineering to promote growth of diverse sports in Kenya,” Mwangi said.
According to PS Mwangi, Kenya’s sports sector stands to gain immensely from partnerships emerging from the Africa Forward Summit, especially as the government continues to roll out sports infrastructure projects across all 47 counties.
He noted that the ongoing transformation of the country’s sports ecosystem requires investment in modern technology and quality equipment to ensure local facilities meet international standards.
Mwangi further welcomed the commitment by the French investors to continue engaging with Sports Kenya and various sports federations in efforts aimed at achieving holistic growth of sports in the country.
The PS reiterated the government’s commitment to working closely with both local and international stakeholders to elevate Kenyan sports to a globally competitive level.
”I welcomed the investors’ commitment to further engage with Sports Kenya and diverse federations to partner for holistic development of sports. As a government, our resolve is to engage with stakeholders including international partners to drive Kenya’s sport to the next level.” He added.
The meeting was also attended by senior officials from the State Department for Sports, including Secretary Administration Evans Achoki and Deputy Director Elizabeth Wamalwa. Others present included Director General of Sports Kenya Timothy Kilimo and AFCON 2027 Local Organizing Committee CEO Anthony Lung’aho.
