Talanta stadium 37% done as Kenya speeds up CHAN, AFCON plans
She also appealed to fans to avoid damaging stadium property during matches.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has told Parliament that the government is spending billions on upgrading key stadiums across the country in preparation for upcoming continental football championships.
Speaking to the National Assembly Committee on Sports and Culture at Bunge Tower, Tuya disclosed that the newly planned Talanta Sports Complex alone will cost Sh44.7 billion, with Sh2 billion already paid to the Chinese firm handling the construction.
"The new Stadium is at 37% complete, and it is expected to be completed by 28th February 2026," she said on Thursday.
Beyond the new complex, the CS outlined major funding plans for existing stadiums that will host the CHAN tournament in August and the 2027 AFCON games.
Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, is undergoing a phased upgrade, with Sh3.6 billion committed to the first phase.
"Phase two of changing the status of Kasarani will cost another Sh3.1 billion to make the facility eligible to host AFCON," she added.
Renovations at Nyayo Stadium are also underway, with Sh1.1 billion allocated.
Already, Sh200 million has been paid for completed work. Another CHAN venue, Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, is set to cost more than Sh3.5 billion, with Sh300 million already used.
Tuya also briefed MPs on smaller yet critical facilities that will be used as training grounds. These include Police Sacco Stadium and Ulinzi Sports Complex, which cost Sh582 million and Sh490 million, respectively.
"Significant progress has been made on all the stadiums, and we are confident of beating the deadline set by CAF," she told the Committee.
Tuya stressed that hosting these events would boost the country’s image and economy.
"The hosting of AFCON championship is not only a national pride but has many economic benefits," she said.
She also appealed to fans to avoid damaging stadium property during matches.
"The host country has the privilege of taking part in the championship and therefore a motivation to our football players and entertain fans who will turn up to watch football greats in Africa," she said.
The Committee also held discussions with Athletics Kenya officials to hear updates on development plans and efforts to improve athlete welfare.