Commercial Projects

KDF to Begin Upgrade of ‘AFCON 2027’ Stadiums

The project aims to meet the Confederation of Africa requirements.

Updated on

October 11, 2023

Kenya stadium — Kenya is in a stadium-building spree. (Photo: Courtesy)

The Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) are set to begin extensive renovations of the country’s top stadiums after receiving approval from the Cabinet on Monday.

The project, whose budget has not been made public, involves the renovation of Nyayo Stadium, Moi International Sports Complex, and Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret.

It is part of the Sports & Arts Infrastructure Masterplan that includes the construction of a 60,000-seater Talanta Sports Complex at the Jamhuri Sports Complex in Nairobi.

On Monday, a dispatch from the Cabinet said the approval of the construction and renovation projects of facilities hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 was aimed at elevating Kenya’s standing as a sporting powerhouse.

“The ambitious plan includes building the Talanta Sports Complex (Jamhuri, Nairobi) and extensive renovations of Nyayo National Stadium, Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, and Kipchoge Keino Stadium,” the dispatch read.

Hustler Bazaar

The Cabinet said the signature project under the initiative would be the proposed Talanta Sports Complex, a 60,000-seater football stadium featuring world-class training pitches, an arena, and a commercial hub named the ‘Hustler Bazaar’.

The Cabinet further said that the improvement of the standards of the mentioned facilities was meant to meet the Confederation of Africa (CAF) requirements.

“These upgrades are designed to meet the high standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for this prestigious continental event,” the Cabinet said.

Kenya is currently in the midst of an ambitious effort to build stadiums across various parts of the country with the goal of positioning itself as a competitive sporting destination while fostering talent development.

The projects have been hailed as a significant step forward in improving the country’s sporting infrastructure, providing athletes with state-of-the-art facilities, and offering communities spaces for recreational activities and events.

However, despite the lofty goals and enthusiasm surrounding the projects, the construction of stadiums in Kenya has become a controversial subject.

Controversies over delays, stalling, and the delivery of underwhelming facilities have marred the implementation of these initiatives. Many of the projects have fallen significantly behind schedule, leading to frustration among the public.