The long-delayed construction of Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret has once again come under intense scrutiny, with the National Assembly Committee on Sports expressing disappointment over the prolonged stalemate.
During an inspection visit on Friday, Committee Chairperson and Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama criticized the Ministry of Sports for failing to deliver tangible progress, despite the project having commenced back in 2017. The stadium, located in the athletics-rich Uasin Gishu region, holds both symbolic and strategic importance for Kenya’s sports landscape.
“This kind of delay is unacceptable,” Wanyama said. “The timelines given must be adhered to. If not, heads must roll. We cannot continue operating this way.”
Kipchoge Keino Stadium is one of the venues earmarked for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya is set to co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania. The stadium was expected to be a flagship venue, showcasing Kenya’s readiness to host top-tier continental matches. However, work has stalled for over 17 months due to financial constraints and shifting government priorities.
Wanyama revealed that the Ministry of Sports has committed to releasing Ksh 300 million as an initial payment to the contractor to resume construction works. He also acknowledged that previous delays were partly due to the government’s focus on preparing Nyayo and Kasarani stadia for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which diverted resources away from Kipchoge Keino Stadium.
Despite the new funding pledge, the Committee warned that further delays would not be tolerated. “My Committee is watching closely,” Wanyama added. “We want to see real, consistent progress. Eldoret and this region deserve a world-class stadium.”
The nearby 64 Stadium in Eldoret is also undergoing upgrades to serve as a training facility for AFCON 2027, adding pressure to ensure timely delivery of both projects. With just under two years to go until the tournament, concerns are mounting over whether the current pace of work will be sufficient.
Local stakeholders and sports enthusiasts have called on the Ministry of Sports to treat the stadium’s completion as a matter of national urgency. As Eldoret is the home of many of Kenya’s most celebrated athletes, the completion of Kipchoge Keino Stadium is seen as a fitting tribute to the region’s sporting legacy.
For Kenya to make a mark as an AFCON 2027 co-host, delivering on such key infrastructure will be critical — and all eyes are now on the Ministry to act.
