Kenya is set to benefit from a major boost in football development following a high-level meeting between President William Ruto and FIFA President Gianni Infantino in Nairobi. A new Ksh 600 million National Technical Centre will be established in Machakos, marking a significant step towards strengthening the country’s football infrastructure ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The National Technical Centre will house the headquarters of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and is expected to serve as the heartbeat of football development in the country. The facility will play a central role in nurturing young talent, improving coaching standards, and providing a professional training environment for national teams.
The discussions, which also involved Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe, emphasized Kenya’s readiness to co-host AFCON 2027 alongside Tanzania and Uganda. President Ruto highlighted ongoing projects such as the construction of the Talanta Stadium and other modern sports facilities, underlining the government’s commitment to meeting international standards in sports infrastructure.
The investment from FIFA comes at a crucial time as Kenya positions itself as a key player in continental football. With the new Technical Centre, the FKF will finally have a permanent home, ending years of operating without a fully equipped headquarters. The centre is also expected to include state-of-the-art pitches, gyms, accommodation facilities, and classrooms for technical training.
Beyond preparing for AFCON 2027, the project signals a long-term vision for Kenyan football. By focusing on grassroots development, the country aims to create pathways for young players to progress from local leagues to the national team and potentially into international football. Such an environment will not only sharpen sporting performance but also provide opportunities for careers in coaching, refereeing, and football administration.
Infantino’s visit to Kenya, his first ever, coincided with the conclusion of the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024), where Morocco defeated Madagascar in a thrilling final at Kasarani Stadium. His presence was viewed as a strong endorsement of Kenya’s organizational ability and commitment to football growth.
The Ksh 600 million investment in the Machakos facility represents more than just infrastructure; it is a statement of intent that Kenya is ready to take its place on the global football map. With continued collaboration between government, CAF, and FIFA, the foundations are being laid for a brighter future for the beautiful game in the country.
