Talanta Stadium: Government Reveals One Critical Thing That Will Not Be Rushed at AFCON 2027 Host Venue

The government has confirmed that Talanta Stadium is now 80 per cent complete, but one crucial element of the project will take more time to finish ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Providing an update on the progress of the venue, officially known as Raila Odinga International Stadium, authorities explained that while most construction work is nearing completion, the playing pitch will be the final component to be delivered. This, they say, is due to strict international standards that cannot be rushed.

On Friday, the State announced that the 60,000-seater ultra-modern stadium has reached an advanced stage, with only a few finishing touches remaining as Kenya prepares to co-host AFCON 2027 alongside Uganda and Tanzania. Talanta Stadium is expected to serve as Kenya’s main venue for the continental showpiece.

The government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the facility meets all required standards, stressing that quality and attention to detail will not be compromised despite the tight timelines.

Following an inspection tour of the stadium on Friday, Defence Principal Secretary Dr Patrick Mariru confirmed that most of the critical structural work has already been completed. The tour covered both interior and exterior sections of the stadium, including the two outdoor training pitches.

According to Mariru, key installations such as the superstructures supporting the façade and terraces — where seating will be mounted — are already in place. This marks a major milestone in the construction process.

Why Will the Pitch Take Longer?

Mariru revealed that ongoing works include installing seats, mounting giant screens, and fitting lighting and sound systems. He noted that these tasks are relatively straightforward and can be completed within a short period.

However, the main playing pitch will take longer to finish due to the technical requirements set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and world football governing body FIFA.

“The most critical part for football is the pitch itself,” Mariru explained. “We are currently working on the drainage system, and after that, we will plant the grass.”

He emphasized that the grass must be grown naturally, as required by CAF and FIFA regulations. Once planted, the grass will need between two and three months to mature fully before it can be used.

“We will allow the grass to grow naturally. That is one thing we cannot speed up,” he said. “Everything else will be completed within the set timelines.”

Government Confident of Meeting Deadline

Despite the longer timeline for the pitch, the government remains confident that the stadium will be ready in good time for AFCON 2027.

Mariru noted that the remaining 20 per cent of work is the easiest phase of the project, as most of the heavy construction has already been completed.

“The 80 per cent we have done is the hardest part,” he stated. “The remaining 20 per cent includes tasks like fixing seats, which can even be done in a single day.”

He added that major structural elements such as steelwork, brickwork, and concrete installations are already finished, leaving only final fittings and finishing works.

In addition to Talanta Stadium, the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, will also host AFCON 2027 matches in Kenya as the country gears up to deliver a successful tournament on home soil.