President William Ruto made a significant announcement during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, December 12, 2025. The Head of State promised to rename the soon-to-be-unveiled Talanta Stadium after the late former Prime Minister, Raila Amollo Odinga after its completion.

The promise came in response to a public request made earlier in the programme by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.

“Na nimeskia yale gavana wa Nairobi amesema ya kwamba ile uwanja wa talanta ipatiwe jina gani?… mumesema ipatiwe jina la Raila Amollo Odinga International Stadium, nimewaskiza na tukimaliza tutafanya hivo,” President Ruto affirmed.

In his address, President Ruto engaged the crowd, asking them to confirm their preference for the new name. He then confirmed the government would proceed with the renaming once the facility is complete.

The push to rename the stadium serves as a major honour for the late political icon. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja used his platform to formally ask the President to approve the name change, which was met with loud approval from the crowd.

The move to rename the facility to the Raila Amollo Odinga International Stadium will permanently cement Odinga’s legacy as a colossal figure in Kenya’s history. It places his name on a landmark project that symbolises national unity and sporting excellence.

The name change follows earlier appeals by leaders like Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga.

The decision reflects a spirit of national cohesion, bridging political divides through a shared tribute.

The stadium, officially named the Talanta Sports City, is a flagship project designed to be one of the host venues for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya is co-hosting with Tanzania and Uganda.

Here are key details about the facility:

It is designed to accommodate 60,000 spectators, making it one of the largest and most modern stadiums in the region.

The stadium features a football-specific layout, without an athletics track, to provide an intimate atmosphere for football and rugby matches.

Construction, which is being handled by China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), has been progressing rapidly. The Sports Ministry anticipates the stadium will be ready for full operation by February 2026.

The facility is currently being built at the Jamhuri Grounds along Ngong Road in Nairobi.