Kasarani Stadium to Close for Major AFCON Renovations Ahead of 2027 Continental Showpiece

Moi Sports Centre Kasarani is set to close as the government begins phase two of major renovations. The upgrades are in preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda.

Local Organising Committee (LOC) chairman Nicholas Musonye said the Ministry of Sports and Sports Kenya are prioritising world-class facilities. “We are ready for AFCON, and when we close some of these venues, it is not intentional. We want to host the best AFCON for the legacy of this country,” he explained.

The closure comes after the 2024 CHAN tournament highlighted areas needing improvement. Kasarani will receive a full turf overhaul, including a new hybrid playing surface. Meanwhile, the 18,000-seater Nyayo National Stadium will get a modern canopy and other upgrades to meet international standards.

The renovations are expected to disrupt local sports. Top-tier football clubs will need to find alternative venues for league matches. Musonye asked for patience from football and rugby stakeholders. “Some league matches may have to be played away from Nairobi,” he said.

Security is also a key focus. Musonye warned hooligans that destructive behaviour will no longer be tolerated. “This time, hooligans will not be allowed to destroy facilities and walk away. We know them, and they have been getting away with it. That will not happen as we prepare for AFCON,” he stated. Authorities may restrict access to offenders if necessary.

Musonye also called on Kenyans to take responsibility for protecting public facilities. He noted that vandalism at Kasarani is not the government’s fault. “When these facilities are put in place, you don’t break them and blame the government. It is our responsibility to safeguard our facilities,” he said.

The upgrades aim to leave a lasting legacy for Kenyan sports. Officials hope the new surfaces and modern stadium infrastructure will attract international events beyond AFCON. Fans can look forward to a world-class experience, both on the pitch and in the stands.

Kasarani and Nyayo are set to become benchmarks for sports infrastructure in the region. The government believes these renovations will demonstrate Kenya’s readiness to host major international tournaments.