Kenya to Spend Sh57 Billion on Stadium Projects for CHAN and AFCON Tournaments
The Kenyan government has unveiled a massive Sh57 billion investment plan to construct and renovate major sports facilities ahead of hosting the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to the Ministry of Defence.
Appearing before the National Assembly’s Committee on Sports and Culture, Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya detailed the significant budget allocations and the progress made on key stadium projects across the country.
Talanta Stadium to Lead the Charge
The most significant allocation – Sh44.7 billion – has been set aside for the construction of the new Talanta Stadium, a flagship facility expected to be complete by February 28, 2026. Already, Sh2 billion has been paid to the Chinese firm contracted for the project. The stadium is currently 37% complete.
Renovations Underway at Existing Venues
- Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani will receive a total of Sh6.7 billion, with Sh3.6 billion going into phase one and Sh3.1 billion for further upgrades to meet CAF standards for AFCON.
- Nyayo National Stadium is being upgraded with a Sh1.1 billion budget. Of this, Sh200 million has already been disbursed.
- Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret is another CHAN venue with over Sh3.5 billion allocated, with Sh300 million already spent.
Training Grounds Also Targeted
The CS also disclosed that CAF had recommended the renovation of Police Sacco Stadium and Ulinzi Sports Complex to serve as official training grounds:
- Police Sacco Stadium: Sh582 million
- Ulinzi Sports Complex: Sh490 million
National Pride and Economic Boost
Tuya emphasized that hosting the CHAN and AFCON tournaments would offer numerous economic and cultural benefits, along with enhancing Kenya’s global reputation in sports.
“The hosting of the AFCON championship is not only a matter of national pride but has many economic benefits,” she said.
She added that Kenya’s automatic qualification as a host country presents a motivational opportunity for local footballers and fans.
Plea to Fans: Protect Public Infrastructure
The CS also appealed to fans to act responsibly and avoid vandalizing stadium infrastructure, noting that damage to public facilities comes at a heavy cost to taxpayers.
“Significant progress has been made on all the stadiums, and we are confident of beating the deadline set by CAF,” Tuya assured the committee.
Kenya is now poised to be one of Africa’s top sporting destinations, with revamped facilities and renewed commitment to developing its sporting infrastructure.
In other news: FIFA World Cup 2026: Countries That Have Qualified After March International Break
Kenya to Spend Sh57 Billion on Stadium Projects for CHAN and AFCON Tournaments