What FIFA-Funded Ksh 600 Million FKF Technical Center in Machakos Will Feature Following Gianni Infantino's Kenya Visit

FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited Kenya for the first time since he assumed office in 2016, where he met President William Ruto as well as watched the CHAN 2024 final at Kasarani.

Kenya is set to benefit from a Ksh 600 million FIFA Forward-funded project that will see the construction of a Football Kenya Federation (FKF) National Technical Center in Machakos, a facility expected to transform the country’s football development.

During his first official visit to Kenya since assuming office in 2016, FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that the multi-million project will soon break ground after receiving the land deeds from President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi.

What Technical Center Will Entail

According to FIFA, the Technical Center will include:

One natural grass pitch

Two artificial turf pitches

A modern administration block

Conference and training facilities to host national teams, workshops, and capacity-building programs

The center will serve as a hub for Kenya’s national teams – from the Harambee Stars to youth and women’s squads – offering world-class facilities for preparation ahead of international matches and tournaments.

Infantino described the project as both a “fit-for-purpose training facility for today” and a “beacon of hope for future generations of Kenyan footballers.”

President Ruto emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting football growth, while Infantino praised FKF President Hussein Mohammed and CAF’s Patrice Motsepe for pushing the initiative forward.

“I have every faith that FKF, with the support of FIFA and CAF, will give this project the passion and effort it deserves to ensure Kenyan football takes a big step forward,” Infantino said.

AFCON 2027 and CHAN 2024 Legacy

Infantino’s Kenya trip also included a tour of the under-construction Talanta Stadium, a 60,000-capacity facility that will be a showpiece venue when East Africa co-hosts AFCON 2027.

He capped his visit by attending the CHAN 2024 final at Kasarani, where Morocco defeated Madagascar 3-2 to clinch a record third title. Infantino congratulated Kenya for successfully co-hosting the continental tournament, calling the fan turnout and passion “incredible.”

Once complete, the FKF Technical Center in Machakos is expected to become the heartbeat of football development in Kenya, creating an environment where elite players can train and young talent can aspire to rise through the ranks with access to professional facilities.