Boost for 2027 AFCON preparations as President Ruto pledges billions for Bukhungu Stadium completion
.jpg)
Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 02.01.26. | 14:38
Phase two works include the construction of new terraces, expansion of seating capacity, improved changing rooms, and auxiliary facilities
President William Ruto has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Kenya’s sporting infrastructure after pledging Kshs 1.4 billion towards the expansion and completion of Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega County.
The Head of State announced while addressing spectators on Sunday, 1 January, during the grand finale of the Governor Fernandes Barasa's Cup.
Follow our WhatsApp channel for more news
In his address, President Ruto revealed that the additional allocation would fast-track the stadium’s ongoing phase two construction, a critical stage aimed at elevating the facility to modern international standards.
Phase two works include the construction of new terraces, expansion of seating capacity, improved changing rooms, and auxiliary facilities.
Upon completion, Bukhungu Stadium will be upgraded into a 25,000-seater arena, making it the largest sporting facility in Western Kenya, with the completion timeline set for December 2026.
“We are building 21 modern stadia across the country to nurture the sporting talents of our young people. As part of this commitment, the Talanta Sports City Stadium will be completed later this year, delivering world-class sports infrastructure,” President Ruto stated in a message shared on his official Facebook page.
He added that the Bukhungu investment forms part of a broader Kshs 35 billion development package for Kakamega County aimed at accelerating growth and improving livelihoods.
Strategically located at the heart of Kakamega town, Bukhungu Stadium is being fast-tracked to meet CAF and FIFA standards, having been earmarked as a potential venue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
The Bukhungu upgrade is the latest in a series of government-led projects targeting the sports industry.
Elsewhere, construction is ongoing at the 10,000-seater Migori Stadium and the 10,000-capacity Moi Stadium in Kisumu, whose works commenced in mid-December 2025.
These developments complement completed facilities such as the 10,000-seater Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay and Ithookwe Stadium, while the flagship Kshs 44.7 billion Talanta Sports City Stadium is nearing completion ahead of its March 2026 deadline.
