Kenya’s debate over the use of renovated sporting facilities has intensified after news that Nyayo National Stadium will host a major gospel crusade in September 2025. While the event promises to draw tens of thousands of worshippers, football fans are concerned about the risk of damaging the stadium’s new playing surface, which was recently upgraded to meet international standards.
At the heart of the discussion is whether multi-billion shilling investments in stadium refurbishments should serve only football or be opened to other large-scale community events. Proponents of multi-purpose use argue that globally, modern stadiums are designed to host a wide range of activities, from football matches and athletics to concerts and conferences. The key, they insist, lies in strict management practices to protect both the pitch and surrounding infrastructure.
Well-managed events can generate revenue and ensure that stadia remain in use throughout the year instead of lying idle between sporting fixtures. With Kenya still facing a shortage of world-class venues, multipurpose use also makes economic sense by maximizing the return on public investment.
However, concerns remain valid. Certain activities, particularly those involving heavy equipment or uncontrolled crowd movement on the turf, pose a significant risk to the playing surface. Poorly managed events could undo costly renovations, jeopardize Kenya’s ability to host international fixtures, and reduce opportunities for local teams to train and compete on high-quality grounds.
Balancing these realities requires clear policies on which events are suitable for stadia, strict regulations on crowd and equipment management, and accountability measures for event organizers. For instance, temporary flooring can be laid to shield the pitch, while surrounding areas can be reinforced to prevent structural wear and tear.
There is also a deeper conversation about infrastructure gaps. In an ideal scenario, Kenya would have enough specialized venues—stadia for sports and dedicated arenas for concerts and religious gatherings. But given current limitations, sharing facilities has become a necessity. This means that instead of outright opposition to non-sporting events, the focus should be on creating guidelines that safeguard the playing surface while still allowing communities to benefit from the space.
Modern stadiums in Kenya must evolve beyond single-purpose use. With careful management, they can host world-class sporting events while also serving as cultural and social hubs that bring people together. The challenge is striking the right balance between preservation and accessibility.
