Nairobi — President William Ruto has taken a subtle jab at his critics while inspecting ongoing construction works at the 60,000-seater Talanta Stadium in Nairobi, a key venue earmarked for the 2027 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking on Saturday morning, February 7, 2026, during a tour of the multi-billion-shilling facility, the President assured Kenyans and football fans that the project was progressing well and would exceed expectations once completed.
“Wangwana, mambo? There were people who doubted, but we trusted the process. Now you can see for yourselves — Talanta Stadium is here. Hii ni noma sana, mtapenda,” Ruto said.
The President’s remarks appeared to address earlier scepticism surrounding the pace and feasibility of the stadium’s construction, which forms part of Kenya’s preparations to co-host the continental football showpiece.
Talanta Stadium, which is expected to be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium upon completion later this year, is among the flagship sports infrastructure projects under the Kenya Kwanza administration.
The modern facility is set to host several high-profile matches during the 2027 AFCON, which will be jointly staged by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania — marking the first time the three East African nations will co-host the tournament.
Kenya is banking on the completion of Talanta Stadium to strengthen its bid to deliver a successful AFCON, alongside upgrades to other sporting facilities across the country.
