Published on 20.09.2023
Sports CS Ababu Namwamba has handed over major stadiums for AFCON 2027 preparations, impacting Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards’ home matches.
Sports CS, Ababu Namwamba, made a monumental announcement that directly impacts two of the biggest clubs in the FKF Premier League – Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.
In a strategic move to position Kenya as the ideal host for the 2027 AFCON (Africa Cup of Nations), the government is set to close down two major stadiums, which are home grounds for these prominent teams.
The Nyayo Stadium, a fortress for AFC Leopards, and the Kasarani Stadium, the home of Gor Mahia, are among the four stadiums that have been handed over for renovation. The other two include Kipchoge Keino Stadium and the new Talanta Sports City.
The decision will greatly affect the Kenyan football fraternity, primarily due to the great importance of these venues, especially for Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.
With the government yet to provide a specific date for the closure and reopening of these stadiums, the immediate future of these teams regarding their home matches remains uncertain.
The upgrades at Kasarani seem just as extensive, with a focus on improving the athletes’ areas, lighting standards, and the installation of a new tartan track.
Given the passionate fan base of both clubs, finding alternative venues that match the standards and capacity of Nyayo and Kasarani might be a big challenge.
Kenya’s bid to co-host the 2027 AFCON with neighbors Uganda and Tanzania is indeed an ambitious one and with stiff competition with Algeria, Botswana, and Egypt also in the race with individual bids.
However, with the rapid improvements and renovations being made, Kenya aims to present a compelling case.
