The government has ramped up preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following an inspection tour of the 60,000-seater Raila Odinga International Stadium led by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei on Monday, 9 November.Download our Mozzart Sport app for more newsKoskei, accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising Principal Secretaries and senior security officials, toured the facility to assess its readiness ahead of the continental tournament.##NAJAVA_MECA_10104602##Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, who was part of the delegation, said the team inspected the presidential pavilion, main pitch, mini-stadium and other critical facilities as the final works continue.Mwangi said the inspection was part of a broader government effort to ensure all departments are prepared to support the successful hosting of the continental showpiece."Our engagement reinforced the whole-of-government approach to delivering world-class sports infrastructure, with every Ministry, Department and Agency playing a critical role in ensuring comprehensive operational readiness," he stated.Fred Ambani praises Ikara, raises concern over Leopards' poor finishingHe noted that preparations extend beyond the construction and completion of the stadium, with several government agencies expected to coordinate different aspects of the tournament."From ICT, security, public health, water and sanitation to power supply, roads, transport, rail connectivity, hospitality and tourism, seamless coordination remains central to successfully hosting major international sporting events," Mwangi added.The PS said the investment in modern sports infrastructure was also intended to deliver long-term benefits beyond the 2027 tournament.Coach Onyango identifies key factors behind rising ACL injuries among Kenyan footballers"These facilities will provide platforms for identifying and nurturing talent, attracting international competitions, stimulating sports tourism, creating employment and unlocking commercial opportunities across the sports value chain," he said.Mwangi further outlined the government's ambition to use the new infrastructure to strengthen Kenya's position in the international sporting arena."Our ambition is to build a sustainable, commercially vibrant sports ecosystem that develops talent, creates economic opportunities and positions Kenya as a global sporting powerhouse," he stated.##NAJAVA_MECA_10105824##The Raila Odinga International Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 60,000, is expected to play a central role in Kenya's hosting of AFCON 2027 alongside co-hosts Uganda and Tanzania.The facility is also scheduled to host its inaugural international football encounter between German giants Bayern Munich and Dutch side Ajax on Tuesday, 5 January 2027.McCarthy threatens FIFA, CAF action over unpaid salaries as Harambee Stars face South Africa
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