The government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Nyandarua County into one of Kenya’s leading sports destinations through the construction of the 10,000-seat Ol Kalou Stadium, describing the project as a catalyst for economic growth, tourism, and youth empowerment.
In an update issued on Monday, the Ministry of Sports said the facility is steadily taking shape and is being developed to international standards to support both local and international sporting events.
Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi said the stadium is among the government’s flagship investments aimed at expanding quality sports infrastructure across the country while creating opportunities for young athletes.
Modern facility designed for multiple events
According to the ministry, the stadium will feature a standard football pitch, an eight-lane tartan athletics track, a dedicated warm-up track for VIP competitions, modern changing rooms, spectator terraces, and ample parking space.
Once complete, the facility is expected to host football matches, athletics competitions, and other major sporting events while meeting international standards required for regional and global competitions.
The government believes the project will significantly raise Nyandarua’s profile within Kenya’s sports sector and attract national, regional, and international tournaments.
Beyond sports: A boost for tourism and business
The Ministry noted that the stadium is expected to deliver benefits extending beyond athletics.
Officials say the venue will help unlock Nyandarua’s tourism potential by attracting cultural festivals, music concerts, exhibitions, and other large public events that could stimulate local businesses and increase visitor numbers.
The government also highlighted the project’s impact on the local economy during construction, saying hundreds of young people have already secured employment while suppliers and small businesses continue to benefit from increased demand for building materials and related services.
Creating opportunities for young athletes
Beyond hosting competitions, the stadium is expected to serve as an important centre for talent identification and development.
The Ministry said the facility will provide aspiring athletes from Nyandarua County and neighbouring regions with access to modern sporting infrastructure, giving them a platform to train, compete, and pursue professional careers.
Officials described the project as evidence of the county’s growing contribution to Kenya’s sports development agenda.
Part of preparations for AFCON 2027
The Ol Kalou Stadium project comes as the government continues investing heavily in sports infrastructure ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
Last week, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya confirmed that construction has officially begun on two new training grounds at the Talanta Sports Complex after the project was handed over to a contractor.
The training facilities, which will cater for football, athletics, and rugby, are expected to play a key role in supporting teams during the continental tournament.
Mvurya also revealed that construction of changing rooms and other supporting amenities is progressing, with finishing works underway to ensure the facilities comply with Confederation of African Football (CAF) requirements and international standards.
The government says these investments form part of a broader strategy to modernise Kenya’s sporting infrastructure, nurture local talent, and strengthen the country’s capacity to host major international competitions.
