The government has provided a progress update on the ongoing installation of a new tartan track at Nyayo National Stadium, confirming that the project is in its final stages and will be completed within a week. The development forms part of Kenya’s wider preparations to upgrade sports infrastructure ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the country will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
During an inspection of the works, Sports officials expressed satisfaction with the pace of construction and reaffirmed the commitment to ensuring the stadium meets the standards required for both football and athletics events. The new tartan track is designed to enhance the facility’s suitability for international athletics competitions while also serving as a training venue for local athletes.
The Nyayo Stadium has been a key venue in Kenya’s sporting history, hosting major events such as the Safari Sevens rugby tournament, Cecafa Championships, and national athletics trials. The current renovations are aimed at aligning the facility with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and World Athletics requirements, ensuring that it remains an important national asset for years to come.
In addition to the new track, plans are in place to install a modern roofing canopy that will cover the main stands, providing better comfort and protection for spectators and athletes during events. According to the ministry’s schedule, the canopy installation will commence after the conclusion of the 2025 Safari Sevens tournament, during which the stadium will temporarily close to allow for uninterrupted construction.
The upcoming roofing phase will mark a significant improvement in the stadium’s infrastructure, transforming it into a fully covered, multi-purpose facility capable of hosting regional and continental events. The upgrades will also ensure Nyayo Stadium meets international safety and comfort standards, positioning it as a key component of Kenya’s broader sports modernization agenda.
The government has reiterated that the ongoing works at Nyayo Stadium form part of a strategic plan to elevate Kenya’s status as a premier sports destination in Africa. Once complete, the stadium will not only serve as a competition and training ground for AFCON 2027 but also as a hub for athletics, football, and community activities beyond the continental tournament.
