The government’s ambitious upgrade of Afraha Stadium in Nakuru is gathering momentum as Kenya accelerates preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
The redevelopment project, being undertaken by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), is transforming one of Kenya’s oldest sporting venues into a modern stadium capable of hosting international football matches and athletics competitions.
The renovation forms part of the country’s wider infrastructure programme aimed at ensuring Kenya meets the standards required to stage Africa’s biggest football tournament.
Stadium capacity set to almost double
Afraha Stadium, which currently accommodates about 8,200 spectators, will see its capacity increase to between 13,000 and 15,000 seats during the current phase of construction. Long-term plans target an eventual capacity of 20,000 spectators.
Construction works currently underway include reinforced concrete pillar installation, column casting, beam construction and terracing to accommodate additional seating while improving crowd movement and safety.
The project will also deliver several modern sporting facilities, including a FIFA-standard football pitch, an all-weather Tartan athletics track, upgraded floodlights for night matches and a new VIP pavilion.
The ongoing works build on an earlier Sh650 million renovation funded through World Bank support, which improved the playing surface, drainage system, athletics track, terraces and the main pavilion.
Upgrade expected to revive Nakuru’s sporting scene
The redevelopment is expected to restore Afraha Stadium as one of Kenya’s premier sporting venues after several years without top-flight football.
The stadium has traditionally served as the home ground for FKF Premier League side Ulinzi Stars and has hosted numerous national athletics competitions.
However, major football matches have been absent since redevelopment began, with the last league fixture at the venue played in January 2021, when Ulinzi Stars drew 0-0 against KCB.
Sports stakeholders believe the upgraded stadium will provide athletes and football clubs with world-class training and competition facilities while strengthening Nakuru’s position as a regional sports hub.
Economic benefits expected beyond sports
Beyond improving sports infrastructure, government officials expect the upgraded stadium to stimulate tourism and economic activity by attracting national and international sporting events.
The project is also expected to create business opportunities for local traders, hotels, transport providers and other service industries that benefit from major sporting competitions.
Once completed, the stadium will help position Nakuru as one of Kenya’s key destinations for sports tourism.
Kenya steps up AFCON 2027 preparations
The Afraha Stadium redevelopment is one of several infrastructure projects being implemented as Kenya prepares to jointly host AFCON 2027 with neighbouring Uganda and Tanzania.
The government has prioritised the upgrading of stadiums and related infrastructure to meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) requirements ahead of the continental tournament.
Officials say the ongoing works demonstrate Kenya’s commitment to delivering world-class sporting facilities capable of hosting major international competitions while leaving a lasting legacy for local athletes and communities.
