The
government will spend over Sh57 billion in the coming months to upgrade
stadiums ahead of the continental sporting bonanza, Afcon, Defence
Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has announced.
Appearing
before the National Assembly Committee on Sports and Culture on
Thursday, the CS highlighted an elaborate plan to spruce up five
stadiums to meet the international requirements by early next year.
According
to the plan, the government will invest Sh44.7 billion in the
construction of the Talanta Sports Complex, one of the stadiums
earmarked for the continental tournament.
Tuya confirmed that Sh2 billion has already been paid to the Chinese firm contracted to undertake the project.
Works at the stadium are 37 per cent complete and are scheduled to come to a close by February 28, 2026.
The
CS was briefing Members of Parliament on the status of key
infrastructure projects being implemented ahead of the Confederation of
African Football-sanctioned African Nations Championship (Chan) and the
2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya is set to co-host.
Among the major investments highlighted is the phased rehabilitation of the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The first phase will cost Sh3.6 billion and aims to ready the stadium for Chan, which is set to take place in August 2025.
An additional Sh3.1 billion will be required for the second phase to upgrade the stadium to meet Afcon standards.
Renovations at Nyayo National Stadium are also underway, with an allocation of Sh1.1 billion.
Of this amount, Sh200 million has already been disbursed for completed works.
Kipchoge
Keino Stadium in Eldoret, another Chan venue, is expected to consume
more than Sh3.5 billion, with Sh300 million already spent.
The
Committee also heard that renovations at the Police Sacco Stadium and
Ulinzi Sports Complex are being undertaken at costs of Sh582 million and
Sh490 million respectively.
These facilities have been designated as training grounds for teams participating in Chan, following recommendations by CAF.
CS
Tuya assured the Committee that significant progress has been made
across all project sites and expressed confidence in meeting the
deadlines set by CAF.
“The
hosting of Afcon is not only a matter of national pride but also an
economic opportunity that will elevate Kenya’s stature in the
international sporting arena,” she said.
The
CS urged football fans to be responsible and avoid vandalism of stadium
facilities, warning that such actions incur significant costs to
taxpayers.
“As
the host nation, Kenya will have the privilege of participating in the
tournament, which will serve as a major source of motivation for our
footballers and a spectacle for fans,” she added.
Webuye
West MP Dan Wanyama, who chairs the Committee, pledged the panel’s
support in ensuring steady funding for the timely completion of all
infrastructure.
“We
recognise the immense value these championships bring to our country
and are committed to facilitating the smooth implementation of these
projects,” Wanyama said.
Suba
South MP Caroli Omondi emphasised the importance of integrating
adequate medical facilities in all stadiums under construction and
renovation, noting their critical role during major tournaments.
The
Committee also engaged with the leadership of Athletics Kenya to
discuss ongoing efforts to promote athletics and improve the welfare of
athletes.
