Raila Odinga International Stadium Ready for Final Works

The Raila Odinga International Stadium at Jamhuri Grounds along Ngong Road is nearing completion as construction works enter the final phase. The 60,000 seater facility is being developed as a major sports venue and is planned to host the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The stadium is named after former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, a long time supporter of sports and a prominent Kenyan statesman. The project is also being presented as part of the country’s plans to develop modern facilities as Kenya looks beyond the Vision 2030 development framework.

Construction has progressed across several sections of the stadium, with the main playing surface already levelled. The pitch is now ready for stitching, while other works are continuing around the arena to prepare it for sporting events and large public gatherings.

One of the main features under construction is the hydraulic tension cable roof system. The roofing structure is designed to cover the main seating areas while giving the stadium a modern appearance. Work is also continuing on the installation of seats, floodlights and large LED screens.

The facility will also have modern systems to support football matches and other sporting events. These include public-address systems and Video Assistant Referee enabled officiating suites, which will allow match officials to use video technology during games.

Outside the main stadium, construction of the surrounding training pitches is also progressing. These facilities will provide additional spaces for teams to train and prepare for matches, helping to support the wider sporting activities expected at the site.

The government is also working on infrastructure around the stadium to improve access and support match-day operations. Plans include an adjacent power substation, access roads and a railway station link, which are intended to improve transport connections to the venue.

The additional infrastructure is important because large events at a 60,000 capacity stadium are expected to attract significant numbers of spectators. Better road, rail and utility connections will help the facility operate efficiently when it begins hosting major matches and other events.

According to the project plans, the stadium is expected to host test matches before the end of 2026. Such events would provide an opportunity to assess the playing surface, seating, lighting, security, technology and other systems before the venue hosts the 2027 AFCON ceremonies.

The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration has also said it remains committed to protecting the stadium and strengthening security around the facility. Once completed, the venue will provide Kenya with a large modern stadium for football, athletics, ceremonies and other events for years to come.