Kenya is moving full steam ahead in its preparations to host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya announcing that key stadiums and training facilities will be ready by June 25, 2025.
While leading an inspection tour, Mvurya confidently reaffirmed the country’s commitment to delivering on its promises. He downplayed ongoing concerns over construction delays and logistical hurdles, assuring Kenyans that both tournaments will be hosted successfully.
“We want to confirm to all Kenyans that we are ready to host CHAN and, in effect, we are also ready to host AFCON,” he declared.
According to Mvurya, all contractors working on major venues, including Nyayo Stadium, Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, and Police Sacco Grounds, have committed to handing over the facilities on time. These venues are undergoing upgrades to meet international standards ahead of the competitions.
“We have agreed with all contractors, both for this field and all the other fields, training grounds, Police Sacco, Nyayo and Kasarani, that they will be handing over the key on the 25th of this month,” Mvurya added.
Talanta Stadium Progress
In addition to the main stadiums, Mvurya also updated the public on the progress of the Talanta Sports Complex, one of the government’s flagship projects aimed at nurturing local talent and expanding sports infrastructure. He confirmed that construction is on track for completion by December 2025, with the project being monitored monthly to ensure targets are met.
“We are delivering Talanta by December 2025; we have a monthly milestone,” he said.
Security is also a top priority as Kenya prepares to host continental giants. At Nyayo Stadium, crews are currently building a perimeter wall and installing modern CCTV surveillance systems to enhance safety.
Mvurya noted that the wall is already 60% complete, and the cameras will be integrated with the existing internal security system for maximum coverage.
“The wall that we are doing in Nyayo is part of the recommendations to strengthen security,” he explained. “We will also fix CCTV gadgets so they can properly link with the internal system.”
AFCON 2027 Logistics
On the logistics front, Mvurya confirmed that Kenya is coordinating closely with AFCON co-hosts Uganda and Tanzania under the “Pamoja” partnership. The three countries have already initiated high-level discussions to ease visa requirements for fans and participating teams.
“We have already met the three ministers of Pamoja and we are also engaging our respective immigration ministries to ensure the visa process is not only enhanced but also seamless during the tournament,” said Mvurya.
Supporting the CS’s sentiments, National Assembly Sports and Culture Committee Chairperson Daniel Wanyama also expressed confidence in the country’s readiness, calling out critics who questioned Kenya’s capability.
“We are satisfied that what the Doubting Thomases have been saying about Kenya hosting CHAN and AFCON, we want to confirm to them that yes, Kenya is ready and the two tournaments will be held without any hitches,” Wanyama said.
