Talanta Sports Stadium, soon to be known as Talanta Sports City, is a major sports venue currently under construction in Nairobi, Kenya. Designed to be one of the flagship stadia for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the stadium will play a pivotal role in the tri-state-host tournament, alongside Tanzania and Uganda. Slated for completion in December 2025, this ambitious project will significantly boost Kenya’s infrastructure and sports development.
Location
Located just past Dagoretti Corner in the neighborhood known as “Jamhuri Grounds” or Posta Grounds, the stadium is situated along Ngong Road, approximately 10 kilometers west of Nairobi’s central business district. It is positioned near well-known landmarks such as Polo Grounds and the Jamhuri ASK Showground, which further enhances its accessibility.
Overview and Purpose
With a planned capacity of 60,000, Talanta Sports Stadium is designed to host major soccer and rugby matches. However, there will be no athletics track within the stadium. Instead, athletics fields will be constructed adjacent to the stadium, catering to other sports needs.
While it will primarily serve as a key venue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, the stadium will complement Kenya’s other major football venues, including Moi International Sports Centre (Kasarani) and Nyayo National Stadium, also located in Nairobi. The completion of the stadium represents a significant stride in Kenya’s aspirations to enhance its status as a sports hub in the region.
Construction Details
The construction contract was awarded to the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company (CCCC). Construction began on 1 March 2024, with an expected completion in 2025. The project is being funded through a public-private partnership (PPP), with Linzi Finco 003 Trust, a subsidiary of Liaison Group, issuing a KSh 44.79 billion bond to finance the construction.
By January 2026, 80% of the stadium’s construction was completed, signaling the nearing final phase of the project. Upon completion, the stadium is expected to offer modern amenities and world-class facilities for both players and spectators alike.
Naming and Future Plans
In December 2025, during the Jamhuri Day celebrations, President William Ruto announced plans to rename Talanta Sports Stadium to Raila Odinga International Stadium as a commemorative gesture, although the renaming process requires several steps to be finalized.
Significance for Kenya’s Sports Landscape
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations represents a landmark moment for the East African region, with Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda collaborating to host the prestigious tournament. Talanta Sports Stadium will be one of the critical venues, enhancing Kenya’s reputation as a growing center for international sports events. The stadium’s modern design and top-tier facilities will provide a fitting stage for the continent’s best teams to compete.
