The Staggering Millions FIFA Will Give FKF For Technical Center Construction Following Ruto's Meeting With Gianni Infantino

FIFA President Gianni Infantino was in Kenya to witness the CHAN 2024 final while also inspecting the construction of Talanta Stadium, while having a critical meeting with Ruto at State House.

A new Ksh 600 million National Technical Centre in Machakos, which will house the headquarters of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), is among the key projects that were discussed during a meeting between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Kenyan President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi.

In an official statement on Saturday, August 30, President Ruto confirmed that preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) were also a central topic during Infantino's first-ever visit to Kenya.

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The high-level meeting, also attended by Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe, was held just hours before the African Nations Championship (CHAN) final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

"At State House, Nairobi, I met FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, ahead of the CHAN 2024 finals between Morocco and Madagascar at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani," President Ruto stated.

"We discussed preparations for AFCON 27 and the development of a Sh600 million National Technical Centre in Machakos, supported by FIFA to host the FKF Headquarters," he added.

With Kenya set to co-host the upcoming AFCON tournament with Tanzania and Uganda, President Ruto highlighted the ongoing construction of the Talanta Stadium and other modern sports facilities as proof of the country's commitment to being fully prepared.

"These investments will strengthen grassroots sports, nurture talent, and firmly place our sports on the global stage," he asserted.

Infantino's Historic Visit

FIFA President Infantino arrived in Kenya for his maiden visit on Saturday, August 30, landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to attend the 2024 CHAN final.

He was welcomed by FKF President Hussein Mohammed and other officials before proceeding to the federation's headquarters in Nairobi.

Mohammed noted that Infantino's visit underscored the global recognition of Kenya's successful hosting of the continental tournament.

"On behalf of the Kenyan football family, I warmly welcome FIFA President Gianni Infantino to Kenya for the first time, as we gear up for the CHAN 2024 final," Mohammed said in a statement.

CHAN Final Showdown

The final featured two-time champions Morocco against the island nation of Madagascar, who were competing for their first-ever title.

The match kicked off at 6 p.m. at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, concluding the 30-day tournament.