Construction works at the Kipchoge Keino Stadium are steadily progressing, emerging not only as a key sports infrastructure project but also as a significant source of employment and skills development for local workers.
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The stadium, which is undergoing major upgrades in preparation for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, also referred to as AFCON 2027, forms part of the government’s broader push to modernise sports facilities across the country.
AFCON 2027 will be the 36th edition of the African football tournament organised by the Confederation of African Football as a biennial tournament and it will be hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from 19 June to 18 July.
In light of this, Government investment in sports infrastructure and talent development has been a cornerstone of President William Ruto’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), with the government steadily delivering on its promise to uplift Kenya’s sporting sector to international standards.
President Ruto has on several occasions said the Government will continue to dedicate even more resources to infrastructure that supports talent growth in sports.
“We will continue to dedicate resources to make sure we build the infrastructure that supports the great sporting talents that we have in Kenya,” he said.
The BETA plan emphasises decentralising infrastructure to ensure talent at the bottom of the pyramid has access to world-class facilities.
Workers on-site say the project is already transforming livelihoods. Richard Obuana Oteba, a carpenter from Busia County, described the construction as both an economic lifeline and a platform for professional growth.
“This job benefits me. It helps me earn my daily bread, and I am also able to grow my skills and expand my knowledge in construction,” he said.
Oteba noted that the project has maintained a steady pace since its commencement, expressing confidence in its progress. “From the time I started working here, I have seen consistent progress. The project is moving forward well, and I have not encountered any major challenges,” he added.
He also pointed to the government’s commitment to delivering on its promises, saying the ongoing works reflect tangible action.
“When the President says something, he does it. With this project, we can clearly see that commitment in action,” he said.
Beyond employment, the stadium upgrade is expected to position Eldoret as a regional hub for athletics, tapping into its rich legacy as the ‘Home of Champions’.
Once complete, the facility will meet international standards, opening doors for global competitions and boosting sports tourism.
