Talanta Stadium, the main venue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), is now 66 per cent complete, and remains on track for full operationalisation by February 2026.

Speaking after an inspection on Friday, Cabinet Secretary for Sports Salim Mvurya said he was satisfied with the pace and quality of work, noting that the stadium is set to become a key landmark in Kenya’s sporting landscape.

“I have conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Talanta City Stadium, which now stands at 66 per cent completion. By the end of December 2025, all exterior and major infrastructural works will be finalised, paving the way for the contractor to commence finishing works in preparation for full operationalisation by February 2026,” he said.

CS Mvurya highlighted that complementary infrastructure works, including rail connectivity, road upgrades, utilities, and other supporting facilities, are progressing steadily under the Whole-of-Government Approach.

The Sports CS described the monumental project as a cornerstone for positioning Kenya as a continental and global sporting powerhouse.

"The iconic monumental project is a cornerstone in positioning Kenya as a continental and global sporting powerhouse, elevating our capacity to host world-class events while showcasing Kenya’s excellence, ambition, and growing reputation in modern sports infrastructure development," he said.

Accompanying CS Mvurya during the inspection were Sports PS Elijah Mwangi, Defence PS Patrick Mariru, and other senior government officers.

The 60,000-seater facility is designed to host both football and rugby matches. Key infrastructure supporting the stadium includes a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line along Ngong Road, a railway station providing access to the stadium, and a link road connecting the Southern Bypass to the Bomas International Conference Centre.

The project is being funded through innovative mechanisms, including the Linzi 003 Infrastructure Asset-Backed Security, listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), which raised over Sh44 billion.

Speaking previously, President William Ruto described the funding as a milestone for market-driven infrastructure financing, highlighting that the stadium will be the first purpose-built international facility in Kenya since Moi Sports Centre Kasarani opened in 1987.

"With a 60,000-seater capacity, Talanta Sports City is not merely filling that long-standing gap; it is redefining the nation’s sporting landscape,” he said, noting the facility will help nurture talent and attract global tournaments.

While construction progresses, some Members of Parliament have raised concerns over government's plan to securitise the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund (SASDF) to raise funds for the construction, warning that the move could burden taxpayers with a long-term debt.

Meanwhile, the oval-shaped facility is steadily transforming into what is expected to be one of East Africa’s most iconic sporting venues.

Talanta Stadium is part of a broader plan to prepare Kenya for major continental and international sporting events, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya is set to co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda.

Once completed, the stadium will boast a modern design, high seating capacity, advanced pitch technology, and world-class amenities for athletes, fans, and media personnel.