The Raila Odinga International Sports Complex is nearing completion, with the national steering committee overseeing the project reporting that the stadium is 80 percent complete as Kenya prepares to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The stadium, designated as one of Kenya’s primary AFCON 2027 venues, is being developed under a multisectoral approach comprising the State Departments of Sports, Defence, Internal Security and National Administration, Broadcasting and Telecommunications, and ICT, Roads, Transport, Environment and Climate Change, Energy, Water and Sanitation, Lands and Physical Planning, Office of the Attorney General and the National Police Service to ensure timely delivery to international standards.

The approach seeks to integrate construction works, media, communications, and security infrastructure to facilitate seamless operations during the tournament.

Speaking during an inspection tour of the stadium today, PS Sports Elijah Mwangi confirmed that Kenya is well prepared to host the tournament.

“We recently travelled to Morocco, where we officially received the AFCON flag. This signifies that in 2027, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda will jointly host the Africa Cup of Nations. The Raila Odinga International Sports Complex is a flagship project for Kenya’s sporting infrastructure. We are reviewing progress closely to ensure it meets international standards and is ready for AFCON 2027,” Mwangi said.

“Nyayo National Stadium is scheduled for installation of a new playing surface, Kirigiti Stadium is nearing completion, and at least 21 additional stadiums are under construction to provide adequate facilities for training, competitions, and AFCON matches. These investments support multiple sports disciplines and long-term sports development. Kenya is ready and fully committed to hosting AFCON 2027.”

PS Defence Dr. Patrick Mariru highlighted the importance of coordinated oversight in keeping the project on track.

“The stadium is more than 80 percent complete, covering the most complex and demanding phase of construction. The main structural works are finished, key systems have been installed, and the remaining 20 percent involves installations, fittings, and finishing works, which can be completed within short timeframes. The project is advancing steadily, with mechanisms in place to address challenges as they arise,” he said.

Dr. Mariru added that the stadium’s integrated development, including access roads, water supply, and security infrastructure, ensures the project is well-planned and sustainable.

PS Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke stressed the role of state-of-the-art media and communications systems.

“The stadium is one of the government’s key projects. Advanced broadcast and communications systems are being fully integrated to support operations, media coverage, and logistics. Modern sporting events depend on robust communications infrastructure, and the Ministry is ensuring sufficient facilities for media coverage and courier services to guarantee seamless operations during AFCON 2027,” he said.

PS Internal Security Raymond Omollo added that the stadium’s timely progress demonstrates Kenya’s commitment to sports development.

“The works are proceeding according to schedule, and the core infrastructure is substantially complete. This facility is part of a broader, multi-phase, multi-sports programme.

Kenya is positioning itself to host major continental competitions with infrastructure that meets international standards. What may have seemed like a mirage is now real and tangible,” Omollo said.

During the session, the supervisory committee members also conducted a site inspection to assess milestones achieved and pending tasks. Infrastructure Secretary Washington Okumu assured that internet connectivity and digital systems will meet international standards.

“The committee is working to ensure all agencies remain aligned on timelines, coordination, and delivery targets. Connectivity will be top-notch to support both operational and broadcast needs,” Okumu said.

The stadium is expected to play a central role in Kenya’s AFCON 2027 hosting plans, alongside other supporting infrastructure, as the government emphasizes timely delivery, inter-agency collaboration, and integration of modern broadcast and ICT systems.