Sports and Entertainment Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has revealed that Talanta Stadium could host its first football match as early as November or December this year.
Mvurya made the remarks on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, while inspecting the ongoing construction and preparation works at the stadium. He said Kenya could stage matches at the facility before the country jointly hosts the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Uganda and Tanzania.
According to the CS, holding matches at the stadium before the continental tournament would give authorities an opportunity to test the facility and identify any areas that may require improvement before AFCON 2027.
He explained that the government was also focused on ensuring the national football team, Harambee Stars, is adequately prepared for the major tournament. The football technical team is expected to develop a roadmap aimed at improving the team's preparations.
Mvurya also appealed to Kenyans and the private sector to support the national team's preparations ahead of the tournament.
The inspection showed that Talanta Stadium is now approximately 94 per cent complete, with the remaining works largely involving final touches.
The main playing surface has already been prepared and is awaiting stitching, while two additional training facilities are reportedly 50 per cent and 40 per cent complete.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also conducted assessments of Kenya's facilities and given positive feedback, although discussions are still ongoing over some outstanding requirements needed for full compliance.
Work on spectator and security systems is also continuing. Out of the 91 planned turnstiles, 60 have already been installed, while additional work is being undertaken on skyboxes and media facilities.
The government is also working on supporting infrastructure around the stadium, including a railway connection, a dedicated power substation and feeder roads as Kenya prepares for AFCON 2027.
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