Photo || Ministry of Sports

A new tartan track is currently being installed at the Nyayo National Stadium, while there are plans to install a roofing canopy to cover the full stadium ahead of AFCON 2027.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has announced that the installation of the new tartan track at Nyayo National Stadium is in its final phase and will be completed within a week, as part of Kenya’s broader efforts to upgrade sports infrastructure ahead of the AFCON 2027 co-hosting.

Speaking during a site inspection, Mvurya expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that the stadium is ready to serve as a training and competition venue for both athletics and football.

“We came here to see the new developments on the tartan track, which is already being done. In the next week, we should be concluding this work,” said Mvurya. 

“This facility is also planned for a canopy, so part of the upcoming phase will involve installing it. We are happy with the progress so far.”

The Nyayo Stadium, which has hosted major sporting events including the Safari Sevens, Cecafa Championships, and national athletics trials, is undergoing key renovations aimed at aligning it with CAF and World Athletics standards.

According to ministry plans, a new canopy will be installed over the main stands to enhance comfort for fans and athletes.

 The tartan track’s completion will also make the stadium suitable for athletics training and regional events, complementing the country’s push to strengthen its position as a sports hub in Africa.

The government is  working to ensure compliance modernize several other sports facilities ahead of AFCON 2027, which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

“This work is not just about infrastructure; it is part of a larger strategy to prepare our country for AFCON 2027 and ensure our facilities meet international standards,” the CS added.

Nyayo Stadium is expected to temporarily close after the 2025 Safari Sevens to allow the completion of the canopy installation and other structural improvements. 

The upgrades will ensure the facility remains a key national asset for athletics, football, and community events in the lead-up to and beyond AFCON 2027.