Update on construction of Kenya's alternative Ksh3.5 billion venue for 2027 AFCON [PHOTOS]
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Reading Time: 3min | Thu. 16.07.26. | 19:47
The PS noted that the project extends beyond preparations for AFCON, saying it reflects the government's long-term commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and unlocking its economic potential.
The Kenyan government has issued a fresh update on the ongoing redevelopment of Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, with Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo revealing that construction has entered an advanced phase ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
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The Ksh3.5 billion project forms part of the country's broader sports infrastructure programme as Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania prepare to jointly host Africa's biggest football tournament.
According to Omollo, significant progress has been made on the redevelopment, with key structural works now steadily taking shape.
"Preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) continue to gather momentum, with the ongoing upgrade of Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret positioning the facility as a key training base and alternative match venue for the continental tournament," Omollo wrote.
The PS noted that the project extends beyond preparations for AFCON, saying it reflects the government's long-term commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and unlocking its economic potential.
"The project also reinforces the Government's investment in sports infrastructure as a catalyst for talent development, economic growth and international competitiveness."
Construction works, he added, have progressed considerably, with several of the stadium's major components now nearing completion.
"Construction has advanced significantly, with major structural works, roofing, seating terraces and supporting facilities progressing towards completion."
Once completed, Kipchoge Keino Stadium will have its seating capacity increased from 10,000 to 15,000, making it one of the country's key football venues.
The facility will also be equipped with CAF-compliant infrastructure, including floodlights, modern media facilities and international-standard changing rooms.
Omollo said the redevelopment is also delivering economic benefits beyond sport by creating employment opportunities and supporting businesses within Eldoret and the wider North Rift region.
"The project is also creating jobs and stimulating business activities across Eldoret and the wider North Rift region."
He further noted that the modernised facility will strengthen Eldoret's status as an international sporting destination while broadening its role beyond athletics.
"The upgraded 15,000-seat stadium will also feature CAF-compliant infrastructure, including floodlights, modern media facilities and international-standard changing rooms, strengthening Eldoret's standing as a global athletics hub and an emerging destination for international sporting events."
The PS also highlighted the role being played by the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration in ensuring the venue is fully prepared to host major competitions once construction is complete.
"The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration is supporting the project by enhancing security coordination, emergency preparedness and public safety systems to ensure the venue is ready to host major national and international competitions."
The latest update comes as the government accelerates work on sports facilities earmarked for AFCON 2027.
Besides increasing the stadium's capacity to 15,000 seats, the redevelopment includes the installation of floodlights, modern media and broadcast facilities, upgraded changing rooms, improved spectator amenities, enhanced security infrastructure, hospitality areas, expanded parking and a refurbished playing surface that meets CAF standards.
Kipchoge Keino Stadium is among several venues currently undergoing redevelopment across the country.
Renovation works are also ongoing at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, where upgrades to the playing surface, athletics track, and spectator facilities are underway ahead of the continental tournament.
Meanwhile, Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega is in its second phase of redevelopment, with plans to increase its capacity to 25,000 seats while installing floodlights and other CAF-compliant infrastructure.
With just over a year before the tournament, the government has continued to ramp up construction across the designated venues as Kenya prepares to co-host the 2027 AFCON alongside its East African neighbours.