AFCON 2027 Boost as Kenya Nears Introduction of FIFA-Verified VAR Technology

The introduction of FIFA-approved Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in Kenyan stadiums is a significant step closer to reality.

This development follows high-level discussions between Kenyan government officials and French sports investors at the Africa Forward Summit currently underway in Nairobi.

As Kenya, alongside co-hosts Tanzania and Uganda, prepares for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the push to modernise sporting infrastructure has gained momentum.

Speaking on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, after meeting with a French delegation, Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi emphasised Kenya's commitment to leveraging international partnerships to elevate its sports facilities and officiating standards.

The French delegation was headed by Sophie Lorant, president of France Sports Expertise, and included various technical experts and investors. The talks centered on strengthening cooperation to fast-track investment in Kenya's sports development.

Key among the proposals was the installation of FIFA-certified VAR systems in local stadiums, a move aimed at enhancing the integrity of decision-making in domestic leagues and major tournaments.

The discussions also covered upgrading pitch equipment and redesigning venues with modern engineering to accommodate a wider range of sports.

"Our discussions with the delegation, led by Sophie Lorant, revolved around encouraging investments in sports through the introduction of FIFA-verified VAR technology in our stadia, the upgrading of pitch equipment, and the enhancement of stadium infrastructure through modern design and engineering," Mwangi stated.

"As part of the transformation of the sports ecosystem, Kenya is driving the construction of sporting infrastructure across all 47 counties. Modernising these facilities calls for investments in quality equipment and technology that will be deployed during domestic competitions and tournaments to promote both the standards of the game and officiating."

The Principal Secretary highlighted that these partnerships are crucial as the government continues its nationwide initiative to develop sports infrastructure across all 47 counties.

He stressed that transforming Kenya's sports ecosystem requires significant investment in modern technology to ensure local facilities meet global standards.

Mwangi welcomed the French investors' pledge to continue collaborating with Sports Kenya and various national federations to foster comprehensive growth in the sector.

"I welcomed the investors’ commitment to further engage with Sports Kenya and diverse federations to partner for the holistic development of sports," he added.

"As a government, our resolve is to engage with stakeholders, including international partners, to drive Kenya’s sport to the next level."

The meeting was also attended by senior officials, including State Department for Sports Secretary Administration Evans Achoki, Deputy Director Elizabeth Wamalwa, Sports Kenya Director General Timothy Kilimo, and AFCON 2027 Local Organizing Committee CEO Anthony Lung’aho.