The Ministry of Defence has been appointed to supervise the refurbishment of key stadiums across the nation in preparation for the upcoming African Cup of Nations (Afcon) in 2027.

Cabinet Secretary for Defence Aden Duale confirmed the ministry’s role, stating, “The Ministry of Defence was tasked to supervise these projects and we are the project managers.”

Duale’s team is set to oversee the upgrading of prominent stadiums including Kasarani, Nyayo, Kipchoge Keino, and the state-of-the-art Modern Talanta Football Stadium at Jamhuri. This development follows a recent meeting between Duale and Youth Affairs and Sports counterpart Ababu Namwamba to review the progress of the stadium construction and rehabilitation efforts.

With a focus on enhancing sporting infrastructure nationwide, the Defence Ministry’s supervision aligns with Kenya’s ambition to establish itself as a competitive sporting destination and nurture local talent. The collaborative efforts between the Defence and Sports Ministries aim to ensure the successful completion of these crucial projects, despite past controversies surrounding delays and facility quality.

As Kenya gears up to co-host the Afcon tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania, the rehabilitation of these stadiums signifies a significant stride towards bolstering the country’s sports landscape and fostering community engagement through modern recreational facilities.