Kakamega Governor Barasa Says Bukhungu Stadium on Track for Year-End Completion

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has announced that renovation works at Bukhungu Stadium are progressing well and remain on course for completion by the end of the year.

The governor made the statement after inspecting the site on March 4. He described the project as slightly over 50 percent complete and confirmed an accelerated programme to meet the revised deadline.

Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega is one of the venues under consideration for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania. Completion will bring the facility up to the standards required for continental tournament matches.

The upgrade is a joint effort between the Kakamega County Government and the national government through the Ministry of Sports. Barasa emphasised the need to fast-track remaining works to align with the timeline.

Earlier statements from the governor, reported in February, pointed to completion by August or September, with the facility positioned to host AFCON 2027 matches. The stadium has been closed since January 2024 for Phase Two upgrades, following initial works in Phase One that covered offices, parking, stands, VIP areas and changing rooms.

Phase Two includes the main VIP stand, terraces, a gym, additional changing rooms and a dispensary. Phase Three will handle finishes, safety installations, floodlights, pitch works and access roads.

Reports indicate the stadium is projected to have a capacity of around 30,000 seats once fully upgraded. The national government has taken steps to advance the project, including funding allocations to clear pending bills and maintain momentum.

President William Ruto has previously assured completion by December 2026, with directives issued to relevant ministries to review progress and ensure timely delivery.

The Bukhungu upgrade forms part of broader preparations across Kenya for the 2027 tournament. Other facilities, such as those in Kakamega and beyond, are also receiving attention to meet Confederation of African Football requirements.

Barasa expressed confidence in the collaborative approach between county and national teams, noting that steady progress will deliver a modern venue for both local use and international events.