Ruto Announces Major Stadium Upgrades Ahead of 2027 AFCON

President William Ruto has pledged to complete several stadium projects across Kenya in the coming months as the country prepares to co host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret on Tuesday, October 20, Ruto said the stadium would be completed with a full canopy.

The facility is expected to serve as a training venue for teams participating in AFCON 2027. It has also been assessed as a possible alternative match venue as Kenya prepares to host the continental football tournament.

The President also announced plans to complete Kipchoge Stadium in Kapsabet, Nandi County, and Kamariny Stadium in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County, following recent inspections of the facilities.

However, renovation works at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi have faced delays due to funding challenges.

During a Senate committee meeting on October 6, it emerged that work had stalled after the contractor stopped working over an outstanding payment of Ksh984 million.

The stadium’s renovation contract was valued at Ksh1.184 billion, but only Ksh200 million had been paid.

The delays have raised concerns about the facility’s readiness to serve as an AFCON training venue.

Other projects include the renovation and construction of 33 stadiums across the country, as well as ongoing works at Raila Odinga International Stadium and upgrades at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

Kenya is also preparing to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships in Nairobi, which will become the first African city to stage the global event.

The government says the infrastructure projects will help Kenya attract major international sporting competitions, improve facilities for local athletes and create opportunities for young people.

https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/128725-kipchoge-keino-stadium-get-canopy-ahead-2027-afcon-ruto-says

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