Kenya upbeat about stadia projects earmarked for AFCON 2027 amid Sports Department reshuffle

Kenya is forging ahead with its ambitious stadia project in preparation for co-hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

The recent reshuffle within the Sports Department has placed the oversight of the 2027 AFCON preparations under the newly appointed Permanent Sports Secretary, Elijah Mwangi.

His predecessor, Peter Tum, had initiated key infrastructure projects, including the construction of the 60,000-seater Talanta Stadium and renovation works at Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums.

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Talanta Stadium has been earmarked as the main venue for AFCON 2027 matches, while Kasarani and Nyayo are set to play a crucial role in hosting the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August before serving as supplementary venues for AFCON.

Progress in infrastructure development is evident, with Nyayo Stadium’s renovations completed and Kasarani undergoing the latter stages of Phase II renovations.

Meanwhile, construction at Talanta Stadium is ongoing, with Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya expressing optimism about the project's progress.

“As a government, we are committed to resolving all challenges related to sports infrastructure across the country. We will be actively engaging stakeholders nationwide to fast-track these projects and create opportunities for grassroots talent mobilization,” Mvurya stated in as quoted by KBC.

Outgoing PS Peter Tum reflected on his tenure with pride, highlighting key achievements such as coordinating Kenya’s successful AFCON 2027 bid and overseeing the most ambitious stadium development program in over four decades.

“Serving as Principal Secretary for Sports has been a deeply fulfilling journey, one marked by milestones that I take immense pride in, including coordinating Kenya’s successful AFCON 2027 bid and overseeing the development of Talanta Sports City, Nyayo, and Kasarani, alongside key training grounds,” Tum noted in a tweet.

Kenya’s preparations for AFCON 2027 extend beyond infrastructure to the national team’s readiness.

The Football Kenya Federation recently appointed South African football legend Benni McCarthy as the head coach of Harambee Stars, a move that has received the ministry's approval.

With these developments in place, the Kenyan national football team is expected to make a strong showing in both the 2024 CHAN and the 2027 AFCON, buoyed by home support and improved facilities.

With infrastructural advancements and technical preparations aligning, Kenya remains optimistic about delivering a successful AFCON 2027 tournament and solidifying its status as a key player in continental football.