NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have been thrown into uncertainty following revelations of financial mismanagement in the construction of Talanta Stadium.
A recent report from Auditor General Nancy Gathungu flagged discrepancies in the project’s expenditure, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
The 60,000-seater stadium, under construction at Jamhuri Posta Grounds in Nairobi, broke ground on March 1, 2023, and is slated for completion by December 2025.
However, the audit found that Ksh1.2 billion had already been spent on the project, with Ksh300 million unaccounted for.
The Auditor General questioned the integrity of the spending, stating that the value derived from the expenditure “could not be confirmed.”
Adding to the controversy, former Cabinet Secretary for Sports Ababu Namwamba had previously assured that existing structures at the site would remain intact.
The audit findings, however, indicate discrepancies in project execution, contradicting these assurances.
Beyond the stadium, the report also revealed broader financial gaps within the Sports, Arts, and Social Development Fund.
While Ksh16.2 billion had been allocated to the fund, only Ksh14.6 billion was received, leaving a Ksh1.4 billion shortfall.
Furthermore, Ksh260 million remained unspent, potentially affecting planned projects.
Another major concern highlighted in the report is the lack of an audit committee overseeing the stadium’s construction, further raising questions about financial oversight.
As co-hosts of the 2027 AFCON alongside Tanzania and Uganda, Kenya faces mounting pressure to ensure its facilities meet international standards.
With neighboring countries making progress in their preparations, Kenya risks falling behind unless urgent measures are taken to address the audit’s concerns.
