By KPC Sports Reporter
The government has announced that the 60,000-seater Raila Odinga International Stadium is more than 80 per cent complete, marking a major milestone in what is billed as Kenya’s largest sports infrastructure project since independence.
The update was given on Friday following a high-level joint inspection of the stadium and associated facilities by Principal Secretaries drawn from several government departments.
The inspection was led by State Department for Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi.
Mwangi said the progress achieved so far was a clear indication that the project would be completed within the set timelines, assuring Kenyans that the country would be ready to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“This is proof that we are on course to deliver this project. The government is assuring Kenyans that AFCON will be held and that we have the facilities to successfully execute the tournament,” Mwangi said.
He revealed that Kenya is expecting inspection teams and senior delegations from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in the coming months to assess the country’s preparedness and the status of key infrastructure.
Acccording to Mwangi, hosting a tournament of AFCON’s scale requires a whole-of-government approach, with close coordination among multiple agencies.
He cited security, transport, roads, water, energy and ICT as critical sectors that must work in tandem to ensure a successful tournament.
Principal Secretary for Defence Patrick Mariru said the project was well on track, noting that the bulk of the most critical construction work had already been completed.
“The over 80 per cent represents the most critical works, including the superstructures that support the façade and terraces where seats will be installed. The remaining works can be completed within a short period,” Mariru said.
He added that ongoing works include installation of seats, giant screens, lighting and sound systems.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo hailed the inter-agency collaboration, saying it reflected the government’s practical approach to delivering world-class infrastructure efficiently.
The inspection tour involved assessing interior works within the main stadium as well as external works, including progress on two outdoor pitches.
Formerly known as Talanta Stadium, the Raila Odinga International Stadium is Kenya’s main venue for hosting AFCON next year.
Designed primarily for football and rugby, the facility will feature a modern canopy, a presidential pavilion and 52 luxury skyboxes.