The Raila Odinga International Stadium in Nairobi is on course for completion, with major construction works expected to be substantially finished by end of July 2026, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has said.
Mvurya made the announcement on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, after inspecting the facility.
He said he was satisfied with the pace of works at the stadium, which Kenya is constructing ahead of AFCON 2027 that it will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda.
“I have conducted an inspection of the Raila Odinga International Stadium and I am satisfied with the pace of works at the facility, with all major construction activities expected to be substantially completed by the end of July this year,” Mvurya stated.
“Continuous monitoring, turf management, and landscaping works are ongoing at the main playing pitch and the football training grounds to ensure full compliance with CAF standards and requirements ahead of AFCON 2027,” he added.
Raila Odinga International Stadium capacity and specs
The Raila Odinga International Stadium is being constructed as a new 60,000-seater facility, making it Kenya’s largest stadium once complete.
The project includes a FIFA-standard hybrid turf, new VIP pavilion, floodlights, media facilities, and upgraded dressing rooms to meet CAF elite requirements.
Kenya has designated 3 main stadiums for the tournament:
- Raila Odinga International Stadium, Nairobi – 60,000 capacity. Construction targeted for substantial completion July 2026, then CAF inspection and certification.
- Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani – Over 40,000 capacity. Already CAF-certified. Ongoing upgrades focus on the roof, seats, and VAR rooms ahead of 2027.
- Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi – Over 20,000 capacity. Renovations completed in 2024. Currently hosts FKF Premier League and Harambee Stars matches while awaiting final CAF inspection.
When will AFCON 2027 start?
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has scheduled AFCON 2027 for June 12 to July 12, 2027.
Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania will host matches across the 3 countries, with Nairobi’s Raila Odinga Stadium expected to host marquee fixtures including the final.
“The Government continues to work closely with CAF through regular technical engagements to ensure compliance not only in infrastructure development, but also in operational readiness, governance, and institutional arrangements,” CS Mvurya said.
He added that the Local Organising Committee is expected to onboard additional personnel to strengthen preparations and enhance coordination as Kenya intensifies its readiness to successfully host the continent’s premier football tournament.
With the July 2026 completion target, Kenya has just over 11 months to finalize testing, certification, and operational drills before AFCON 2027 kicks off on June 12, 2027.
