Gov’t updates on Talanta Sports City ahead of AFCON 2027

The Kenyan government has issued a key update on the construction of Talanta Sports City, reaffirming its commitment to delivering the flagship stadium ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the country will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

Located at Jamhuri Grounds along Ngong Road in Nairobi, Talanta Sports City is poised to become Kenya’s premier sporting arena, with a proposed seating capacity of 60,000.

The ambitious project is being executed by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) under the supervision of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Engineering Department.

As of March 2025, construction was reported to be 37% complete.

The government has allocated KSh 44.7 billion to ensure the facility meets international standards and is ready in time for the continental football tournament.

The project is scheduled for completion by December 2025, in time to host the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as key AFCON 2027 matches.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, during a recent site visit, expressed confidence in meeting the project's deadlines, emphasizing the stadium’s significance in promoting Kenya's sports tourism and global sporting profile.

"This facility is not just a stadium. It’s a symbol of Kenya’s readiness to compete on the world stage in sports infrastructure and a vital part of our commitment to AFCON 2027," Mvurya stated.

Despite the progress at Talanta Sports City, concerns have emerged regarding the pace of work at other proposed venues. Construction at the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, for example, has stalled since December 2023.