Kenya gives nine-month stadium deadline ahead of AFCON 2027

Kenya expects all ongoing stadium construction and renovation work to be completed within the next nine months, Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi has said. The deadline comes as Kenya prepares to co-host AFCON 2027 with Uganda and Tanzania.

Mwangi said the national government is coordinating with county administrations to keep contractors on schedule and ensure the venues are delivered within the planned period. The programme covers sports facilities across Kenya that are undergoing construction, renovation or other improvement work.

The government is also in contact with the Confederation of African Football as preparations for the continental tournament continue. CAF inspectors have already visited some of the facilities identified for the competition and issued recommendations on work still required.

Those recommendations are expected to guide the remaining upgrades. The government’s focus is on addressing the identified shortcomings and ensuring that the facilities are ready for AFCON 2027, while also meeting the standards needed for other sporting events.

National sports federations are involved in the planning process. Football Kenya Federation and Athletics Kenya are among the organisations being consulted so that the venues can accommodate the requirements of football, athletics and other competitions.

The infrastructure programme is intended to extend beyond the tournament. Kenya wants the upgraded facilities to support local teams and athletes, as well as provide venues for future international events after AFCON 2027.