Why FIFA President is impressed with East African football
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Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 01.09.25. | 10:29
For the first time since his election as the supremo of FIFA in 2016, Infantino visited Kenya, as the chief guest at the 2024 CHAN finals
Following his first-ever visit to Kenya, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has with reasons, expressed his pleasure with East African football.
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East African football has been on a rise and especially in the last two years, which culminated in the co-hosting of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in the region.
For the first time since his election as the supremo of FIFA in 2016, Infantino visited Kenya, as the chief guest at the 2024 CHAN finals.
Infantino joined CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe in a press conference after the CAF Executive Committee Meeting held at a Nairobi hotel, where he revealed his admiration for football in the region.
“The perception that East Africa is behind the West, South and North is wrong, and the investment in new stadiums is showing the commitment,” said Infantino.
Just like it was noted by Infantino, there has been tremendous improvement in sporting infrastructure in the region, triggered by the 2024 CHAN.
Kenya, for instance, embarked on the upgrading of both Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadium for use in the tournament.
The government also renovated and upgraded some stadiums that were used as training grounds in the tournament, including Ulinzi Sports Complex, Kenya Police Sacco Stadium and both Kasarani Annex Upper and Lower.
Additionally, Kenya is currently constructing a brand new ultra-modern Talanta Sports City Stadium that will be used as the country's main facility at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Neighbours Uganda are also constructing the Hoima Stadium - a brand new 20,000-seater stadium that will be used at AFCON but will be available by 31 December 2025.
Apart from the stadiums, the Italian also praised Kenya's growth and ambitions, including the highly anticipated construction of a national technical centre valued at Ksh600 million.
“We have a new federation [in Kenya] which is engaged in football and we hope we can start a national centre and academies soon,” remarked Infantino.
