Renowned Kenyan activist, writer and lawyer Saitabao ole Kanchory has alleged massive corruption in the KSh 45 billion construction of the 60,000-seater Talanta Stadium, a key venue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
In a sharp post on X, Kanchory contrasted Kenya’s project with Morocco’s infrastructure drive. Morocco, hosting AFCON 2025 and co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup, is building the world’s largest stadium — the 115,000-capacity Grand Stade Hassan II — complete with a mini-city, at an estimated USD 500 million (KSh 65 billion).
“Morocco is building the largest stadium in the world with a seating capacity of 115,000, complete with a mini-city around it at a cost of USD 500M (KSh 65B). Meanwhile, Kenya is building a 60K capacity stadium with no supporting infrastructure at a cost of KSh 45B,” he wrote.
The Talanta Stadium, set to be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium, lacks major ancillary features such as transport upgrades, hotels or commercial zones despite the high cost. Kanchory warned: “No country can survive the theft that is currently underway in Kenya.”
His remarks echo concerns over Kenya’s economic pressures, high taxation and rising debt. Critics have flagged potential hidden costs, with some projections reaching KSh 145 billion over 15 years due to financing.
Government defends progress
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo reported steady advancement on 27 December 2025, noting that external works, the stadium emblem, interior canopy and playing surface levelling are nearing completion to international standards. The facility includes a rare hydraulic tension cable roof, modern changing rooms, VIP areas and VAR readiness.
President William Ruto has described the project — funded via public-private partnership and a Nairobi Securities Exchange bond — as a milestone for youth talent and sports, with completion expected in January 2026 for AFCON 2027, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
Morocco sets high benchmark
Morocco has upgraded venues like the 69,500-capacity Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat for AFCON 2025, while investing heavily in broader infrastructure for global events.
Kanchory’s critique highlights ongoing demands for transparency and accountability in Kenya’s major public projects as the country gears up to host continental football.
