His Excellency Hon. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, on 16 July 2025 conducted an inspection tour of the Moi International Sports Complex – Kasarani (MISCK). The facility, renovated and upgraded under the oversight of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) through the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), is among several stadiums being prepared for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The President was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Defence Hon. Soipan Tuya; Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Hon. Salim Mvurya; Principal Secretary for Defence Dr. Patrick Mariru; Principal Secretary for Sports Mr. Elijah Mwangi; as well as senior government, military, and sports officials.
“I am satisfied with the progress made in renovating this world-class sports centre. We are ready for the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship set for next month,” remarked the President.
Earlier in the day at Nyayo National Stadium, CS Tuya officially handed over the upgraded Nyayo National Stadium, Ulinzi Sports Complex, and Police Sacco Stadium to her Sports counterpart, Hon. Salim Mvurya, ahead of CHAN 2024, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Like the Kasarani facility, these stadia were upgraded by the Ministry of Defence through the KDF, reflecting the government’s multi-agency approach in delivering strategic national infrastructure projects. Other major stadium projects under MoD include the 50,000-seater Talanta Stadium at Jamhuri Grounds and the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret.
Speaking during the brief handover ceremony, CS Tuya commended the successful delivery of the project:
“The Ministry of Defence is proud that, with the support of key stakeholders, we have, through the Kenya Defence Forces, implemented this project successfully. Kasarani is ready, and all other CHAN venues are complete.”
She reaffirmed MoD’s commitment to supporting future infrastructure projects, particularly as Kenya prepares to co-host AFCON 2027:
“This is a momentous occasion that exemplifies patriotism and national unity. We are not just building infrastructure—we are inspiring our athletes and uniting the nation. AFCON is coming, and KDF stands ready to play its role.”
CS Tuya also urged fans to preserve the newly renovated facilities:
“I encourage all Kenyans to value and protect this infrastructure. Acts of hooliganism and vandalism during matches must come to an end.”
Hon. Mvurya, who formally handed over the three stadia to CHAN Local Organizing Committee Chair Mr. Nicholas Musonye, extended gratitude to the Ministry of Defence for overseeing the upgrade works.
“I invite all Kenyans to fill the stadiums in support of Harambee Stars and to showcase our passion and patriotism,” he said.
The delayed 2024 CHAN tournament will be held from 2 to 30 August across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Kenya is set to host the final match at Kasarani Stadium.
Add Comment