The government has announced that construction of the 60,000-seater Raila Odinga International Stadium is more than 80 percent complete, marking a major milestone in what is Kenya’s largest sports infrastructure project since independence.
Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi said the significant progress on the ultra-modern facility demonstrates the government’s commitment and provides assurance that the project will be completed within the set timelines.
Mwangi made the remarks during an inspection tour of the stadium alongside Principal Secretaries Patrick Mariru (Defence), Dr Raymond Omollo (Interior), and Stephen Isaboke (Broadcast and Telecommunications).
He noted that Kenya is expecting inspection teams and high-level delegations from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to begin assessing the country’s infrastructure ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“This is proof that we are on course to deliver this project. The government is assuring Kenyans that AFCON will be held and that we have the facilities to successfully host the tournament,” Mwangi said.
Senior officials from the State Departments for Roads, Water, Transport, Energy, as well as the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), were also present during the inspection.
Mwangi emphasized that hosting a tournament of AFCON’s magnitude requires a whole-of-government approach, involving multi-agency coordination to streamline key activities.
He cited security, transport, roads, water, energy and ICT as critical sectors in enhancing Kenya’s readiness to stage the tournament.
The inspection involved a walk-through of the main stadium to assess interior works, as well as an evaluation of external works, including progress on the two main outdoor pitches.
Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru said the project was firmly on track, noting that the most critical construction phases had already been completed.
He explained that the over 80 percent completion rate reflects the completion of key superstructures supporting the façade and seating terraces.
“The bulk of the work is done. The remaining works can be completed within a relatively short period,” Mariru said, adding that installation of seats, giant screens, lighting and sound systems was ongoing.
Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo praised the project’s progress, saying the inter-agency approach reflects the government’s practical strategy for delivering world-class infrastructure efficiently.
Formerly known as Talanta Stadium, the Raila Odinga International Stadium will serve as Kenya’s main venue for hosting the Africa Cup of Nations next year.
Designed to host football and rugby, the facility will feature a modern canopy, a presidential pavilion, and 52 luxury skyboxes.