Local football fixtures in Kenya are set to face major disruption following the decision by Sports Kenya to close Nyayo National Stadium and Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, for renovations ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The closures, which are expected to take effect from next month, will force clubs that regularly use the two venues to look for alternative grounds for league matches and other competitions. The renovation works are part of the country’s preparations to meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards ahead of hosting the tournament.
Sports Kenya Director General Gabriel Komora confirmed that both facilities will be unavailable as the government begins major upgrade works.
“We are commencing renovations at both Nyayo and Kasarani to make them ready for the Africa Cup of Nations, and therefore they will not be available for use from February,” Komora said, as quoted by Mozzart Sport.
Komora added that Sports Kenya is working with contractors and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to explore ways of reducing the impact of the closures on domestic competitions and other sporting events.
“We want to see how best to minimise the disruption so that the clubs are not affected in a big way,” he said.
Fresh from attending the 2025 AFCON finals in Morocco, Komora expressed confidence that Kenya’s upgraded facilities would meet international standards.
“Morocco put up an incredible tournament, and we had a chance to learn from them,” he said. “We will do everything possible to match what we saw there.”
Meanwhile, construction work at the 60,000-capacity Talanta Sports City Stadium, recently proposed to be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium, has reached an advanced stage, with over 80 per cent of the project completed.
During a government inspection on January 23, 2026, officials confirmed that the stadium’s concrete superstructures and exterior shield motifs are fully in place. The project has now entered its final phase, including the installation of a high-tech ETFE canopy roof and a GrassMaster hybrid playing surface.
Supporting infrastructure, such as a dedicated railway station and expanded road networks, is also being fast-tracked to improve accessibility for both local and international fans.
Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi said the progress reflects the government’s commitment to successfully hosting the continental showpiece.
“This is proof that we are on course to deliver this project,” Mwangi said. “The government is assuring Kenyans that AFCON will be held and that we have the facilities to stage the tournament.”