PHOTOS: Talanta Stadium Progress on Track for AFCON 2027

Kenya is aggressively pushing forward with the construction of the Talanta Sports Stadium, a monumental infrastructure project in Nairobi's Jamhuri Grounds. Also known as Talanta Sports City, the venue is rapidly taking shape and is designated as a key facility for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the nation will co-host. The advanced stage of construction is clearly visible, demonstrating a firm commitment to meeting the tournament's deadlines.

The project’s groundbreaking took place on March 1, 2024, an event that highlighted the national priority of the stadium and was officiated by President William Ruto. Recent reports indicate the construction has already reached a highly advanced stage, estimated to be between 40 to 60% complete as of September 2025. This fast-paced progress is vital to ensure the stadium is fully prepared to host major AFCON matches, including the tournament's opening game and the final, as Kenya co-hosts the event with Tanzania and Uganda.

The 60,000-seat arena is designed to strictly adhere to CAF and FIFA international standards. Notably, it is a purpose-built facility for football and rugby, intentionally constructed without an athletics running track to ensure clear sightlines and optimal viewing for spectators. Architecturally, the stadium will be a cultural landmark, featuring a fully covered structure with a decorative exterior inspired by the traditional Maasai shields and spears, powerfully reflecting Kenya's heritage and national identity.

Valued at approximately KSh 45.3 billion (US$350 million), the construction is being executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) as the main contractor. The ambitious target completion date is set for December 2025 or early 2026. Once complete, the Talanta Sports City will not only serve the AFCON but will transform Kenya’s sports infrastructure, positioning Nairobi as a premier hub for sporting, cultural, and entertainment events in East Africa.