Kenya will meet all its obligations ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has assured the Senate, citing ongoing infrastructure upgrades and financial commitments by the government.
Appearing before the Senate plenary on Wednesday, Mvurya said the State had put in place adequate measures to comply with requirements set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as preparations gather pace.
“As a Ministry, we are working very closely to ensure that we meet our financial and infrastructural compliance obligation. The facilities that will be used are Talanta, which is Raila Odinga International Stadium that is almost complete and Kasarani. Nyayo, Ulinzi, Police SACCO will be training grounds,” said Mvurya.
Infrastructure And Financial Commitments
The CS told lawmakers that Kenya is actively implementing recommendations issued by CAF following an inspection visit conducted in February 2026.
He revealed that the country is required to raise KSh 3.9 billion to meet its financial obligations tied to hosting the continental tournament.
“Kenya is supposed to pay KSh 3.9 billion, we are working with the National Treasury and the relevant Parliament Committee to make sure that we comply to the financial obligation,” he said.
Mvurya emphasized that infrastructure development remains central to Kenya’s readiness, with key stadiums nearing completion while others are being rehabilitated to meet international standards.
Support For Sports Development In Kisumu
Responding to a question raised by Kisumu Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda, the CS highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen sports development in Kisumu County.
He pointed to the rehabilitation of Moi Stadium and Jomo Kenyatta Sports Ground as part of a broader strategy to enhance the region’s capacity to host national and international events.
“The Ministry is working with the Ministry of Defence, which is already on the ground undertaking construction and rehabilitation works at the facilities,” he said.
In addition, Mvurya noted that grassroots sports initiatives, including training for coaches and technical officials, have been expanded through collaboration with county governments and sports federations.
Talanta Hela Tournament Impact
The CS also cited the Talanta Hela Football Tournament as a key initiative in nurturing young talent across the country.
Organised by the Kenya Academy of Sports in partnership with county governments, the tournament was held in 12 regions between August and December 2023.
In the Nyanza North region—comprising Kisumu, Siaya and Homa Bay—Kisumu teams excelled, with the boys’ team finishing second at the national finals and receiving a cash prize of KSh 3 million.
Talent Identification And Transparency Measures
Mvurya explained that talent identification is conducted through structured school sports systems in partnership with the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) and the Kenya Primary and Junior Schools Sports Association (KPJSSA).
“Technical personnel, including coaches, are nominated through these associations based on their active involvement in school sports programmes,” he said.
He added that athletes are identified during regional and national competitions, which serve as key platforms for spotting emerging talent.
To ensure fairness, the Ministry is working with Sports Kenya, national federations, and county governments to promote transparency and equity in resource allocation.
The government has also allocated KSh 800 million for the upgrade of Moi Stadium in Kisumu into a modern 10,000-seater facility.
Senators Raise Concerns
Despite the assurances, Senators raised concerns over alleged inequalities in talent identification and delays in the construction of sports facilities across the country.
In response, Mvurya acknowledged the challenges and pledged reforms.
He announced that the Ministry will roll out an affirmative action plan from April 2026 to address disparities and ensure inclusivity in sports development nationwide.
The government remains optimistic that with sustained investment and coordinated planning, Kenya will be fully prepared to co-host AFCON 2027, positioning the country as a regional sports powerhouse.
