UPDATE: Key final touch at Nyayo Stadium awaiting approval ahead of CHAN

The ministry has provided an update on the final touches needed at Nyayo National Stadium before its official approval for hosting the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) matches.

The stadium, which has been undergoing renovations alongside Kasarani Stadium, is leading in terms of readiness.

Despite some minor pending details, Nyayo National Stadium has already hosted an international fixture, the U17 FIFA World Cup qualifier between Kenya and Uganda on March 16.

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The facility is also expected to serve as the home venue for the Kenyan national football team, Harambee Stars, under newly appointed head coach Benni McCarthy.

Harambee Stars are scheduled to face Gambia and Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the former on March 20 in Ivory Coast.

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and the Ministry of Sports are in discussions to have the Gabon fixture on home soil at Nyayo National Stadium on March 23.

Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum expressed optimism about the stadium being ready for the match on the back of the Junior Starlets vs Teen Cranes held at the ground on Sunday.

"That is what we are hoping for," Tum stated regarding the possibility of hosting Gabon in Nairobi.

"But for now, we are still in talks with FKF to see how we can arrange for them to play here."

CAF has already given a preliminary green light to Nyayo National Stadium, as evidenced by its approval for hosting the Kenya vs. Uganda U17 match. However, a final inspection is still pending.

"CAF are saying the stadium is good to go, and that is why we were allowed to host this game (Junior Starlets vs. Teen Cranes U17 World Cup qualifier) on this ground," Tum explained.

"They will come later for another inspection."

The key remaining aspect of the renovation is the installation of the scoreboard, which is part of the second phase of the upgrade plan.

However, Tum assured that all necessary facilities, including floodlights, would be fully operational by March 23.

"The only thing remaining is the scoreboard, which is in the phase two plan because, for CHAN, the scoreboard will be there. If you look at the floodlights, they are functioning, so by the 23rd, everything will be ready," he confirmed.

With CHAN preparations on track and the possibility of Harambee Stars hosting Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium, the ongoing renovations mark a significant step in Kenya’s efforts to improve its sporting infrastructure and reclaim its status as a host for international tournaments.