AFCON 2027: Kenya Unveils Talanta and Nyayo Stadium Railway Plan to Solve Transport Nightmare

Kenya Railways has revealed plans to construct a new railway line linking Nyayo and Talanta Stadiums as part of wider efforts to ease transportation challenges during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

After Morocco delivered a highly praised and smoothly organised AFCON tournament, the benchmark for hosting the continent’s flagship football event has been raised significantly. East Africa now faces the challenge of matching those standards as Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania prepare to jointly host AFCON 2027.

Kenya, which will stage several key matches, is expected to play a central role in the tournament’s success. With the country close to completing the state-of-the-art 60,000-seater Talanta Stadium set to serve as the main venue—attention has shifted to off-the-pitch logistics, particularly how fans will move to and from match venues.

Concerns over traffic congestion have already been voiced by supporters following experiences during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), where road closures around stadiums caused major delays. Many fear that the situation could be significantly worse during AFCON 2027 if effective transport solutions are not implemented.

New Railway Line to Nyayo and Talanta Stadiums

To address these concerns, the Kenyan government is planning to enhance rail connectivity to Talanta Stadium, Nyayo Stadium and Kasarani Stadium. The move is expected to reduce reliance on road transport while improving convenience for fans, officials and tournament staff.

Kenya Railways has confirmed that the project falls under the expansion of the Nairobi Commuter Rail Service. The plan includes the construction of a new railway station next to Nyayo Stadium, as well as a dedicated spur line branching from Nairobi Central Station, passing through Kibera and extending towards Talanta Stadium.

The proposed Nairobi Central–Limuru commuter corridor has been identified as a feasible route for the spur line. Once completed, it is expected to significantly ease movement during match days while reducing traffic pressure on major roads leading to the venues.

Kenyan Government Keen to Boost Fan Experience

According to Kenya Railways, the rail project is designed to provide a reliable and efficient transport system tailored for the tournament. “The development of the rail spur line is aimed at providing an effective transport solution that will ensure easy access to and from the venues of the soccer event,” the corporation said in a statement.

“The spur line will guarantee commuters a safe, reliable and affordable transport option, ensuring smooth movement during AFCON 2027.”

Preparatory work is already underway, with demolitions beginning on illegal structures encroaching on the railway corridor. Property owners have been issued with notices to vacate as clearance progresses.

Talanta Stadium and Kasarani Stadium will host AFCON 2027 matches in Kenya, while Nyayo Stadium is set to serve as one of the official training venues.