AFCON 2027: Kenya Unveils Match Venues and Training Grounds

Kenya has officially named its match and training venues for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which it will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda as part of the "Pamoja 2027" initiative.

The announcement follows the Confederation of African Football (CAF) releasing key dates for the opening and final matches of the tournament.

Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi confirmed that the under-construction Talanta Sports City Stadium and the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, will serve as Kenya's primary host venues.

Nyayo Stadium, which recently hosted the African Nations Championship (CHAN), has been designated as an alternative ground but will not be a main AFCON venue.

A comprehensive list of training facilities has also been established to support the tournament. The selected grounds include Ulinzi Sports Complex, Police Sacco Grounds, the Moi International Sports Centre Annexes 1 and 2, Kenya Academy of Sports Grounds 1 and 2, Utalii College Grounds, Talanta Sports City Stadium 1, and Kirigiti Stadium.

Speaking on behalf of Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya after the inaugural National Steering Committee meeting for Pamoja AFCON 2027, Mwangi expressed confidence in the country's progress.

"With 410 days to go, Kenya is ready to confirm her solid credentials as a leading host for staging a world-class continental showpiece, the AFCON 2027," he stated.

The meeting brought together senior officials from various ministries and state agencies crucial to the tournament's success. Discussions centered on Kenya's preparedness, CAF requirements, timelines, and cross-border mobility arrangements with co-hosts Tanzania and Uganda.

"The meeting offered an apt platform for appraisal on Kenya’s state of preparedness to host this global tournament," Mwangi noted.

"It entailed a detailed presentation on Kenya’s preparedness, including set timeframes for milestones, CAF requirements, interagency coordination and modalities of enhancing cross-border movement."

While acknowledging the significant progress made, the Principal Secretary emphasised the need for enhanced collaboration to ensure a seamless event.

"While we have complied with a host of CAF requirements and are well on course to meet other essential deadlines, I insisted on the imperative to coordinate more effectively in support of the delivery of a memorable tournament," he added.

Mwangi also highlighted that Kenya's recent experience hosting the 2024 CHAN provides a strong foundation for its AFCON preparations, reinforcing the nation's capability to deliver a successful continental showcase.