Expert Explains Why Kasarani, Talanta Stadia Will Have Hybrid Grass Playing Surfaces for AFCON 2027

A grass agronomist who is providing technical support across East Africa as the region continues preparing for AFCON 2027 has explained why hybrid grass will be installed both at Kasarani and Talanta Stadia for the tournament.

Grass agronomist Moses Kivusi has shed light on why both Kasarani Stadium and the under-construction Talanta Sports City are expected to adopt hybrid grass surfaces ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

Kasarani, which hosted matches during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), currently has Bermuda grass but will require a new playing surface ahead of AFCON. 

Talanta Sports City, earmarked to host the final of the tournament, is still under construction but is also expected to feature a hybrid pitch to meet international standards.

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Uganda’s Nelson Mandela Stadium in Namboole — one of the few facilities in the region already using hybrid turf — and the soon-to-be-completed Hoima National Stadium will serve as hosts across the border. 

In Tanzania, the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and Amani Stadium in Zanzibar are lined up for AFCON duty, with the latter already utilizing a hybrid system.

Hybrid Grasses Can Bypas Light Issues-  Kivusi

Speaking on the Iko Nini podcast, Kivusi explained that hybrid grass offers distinct advantages over purely natural surfaces.

 “Bermuda and paspalum grasses are among the natural varieties where hybrids have been developed. These hybrid grasses are superior because they provide better growth, functionality, and aesthetics compared to traditional options.”

At Nyayo Stadium, the playing surface comprises Kikuyu grass, which according to Kivusi, has yet to have hybrid variations created of it.

He added that the term “hybrid” is also commonly used to describe pitches combining natural turf with artificial fibres. 

“For example, Amani Stadium in Zanzibar uses such a surface, blending artificial and natural grass in different ratios — sometimes 85% artificial and 15% natural. The proportions depend largely on whether the stadium is covered or open,” he explained.

According to Kivusi, natural grass requires adequate sunlight for photosynthesis, which makes maintenance difficult in covered venues. 

“That’s why many modern arenas in Europe use artificial lighting systems to help grass grow. Where such systems are too expensive, hybrid surfaces become a practical alternative, ensuring durability and functionality even with limited natural light,” he noted.

With Talanta Sports City expected to feature a canopy, Kivusi believes hybrid grass is the most viable option.

 “It is highly likely that a hybrid blend of artificial and natural grass will be used to guarantee playability and withstand the intensity of AFCON fixtures,” he concluded.