By Dennis Weche.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya and Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa inspected the ongoing Phase II construction of Bukhungu Stadium this afternoon, expressing satisfaction with the progress.
The upgrades include an improved pitch, enhanced spectator facilities, and modern amenities designed to meet international standards ahead of Kenya’s co-hosting of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“We are making steady progress, and I am pleased with the quality of work being done. Bukhungu Stadium will soon be a world-class facility capable of hosting major tournaments, including AFCON 2027,” said CS Mvurya.
Governor Barasa echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the stadium’s significance to the region. “We are here to show our commitment to nurturing sports talent and creating economic opportunities for our people. With the national government now fully involved, we are confident that Bukhungu will be completed on time,” he stated.
Bukhungu Stadium, one of Kenya’s key sports facilities, has been undergoing phased renovations for several years.
Initially a county government project, construction faced multiple setbacks, including financial constraints and disruptions caused by heavy rains.
However, in mid-2024, the national government took over the project to fast-track its completion and align it with global standards.
The renewed urgency around Bukhungu Stadium’s completion was emphasized during President William Ruto’s visit to Kakamega in early 2025.
While inspecting development projects in the region, President Ruto acknowledged the stadium’s strategic importance in Kenya’s AFCON preparations.
Addressing a gathering at the site, he assured residents that the government was committed to seeing the stadium completed by mid-2026.
“The 2027 AFCON is a great opportunity for our country, and we cannot afford delays in infrastructure development. I have instructed the Ministry of Sports to ensure Bukhungu Stadium is fully completed and ready for use well ahead of the tournament,” President Ruto said.
During his visit, he also engaged with local leaders, including Governor Barasa, on the progress of sports infrastructure in Western Kenya. He assured them of additional financial and technical support to accelerate construction.
The presidential directive was a turning point, prompting the national government to inject additional funds into the project.
In addition to Bukhungu, CS Mvurya also highlighted ongoing developments at Masinde Muliro Stadium in Kanduyi, Bungoma County.
Construction of the stadium, which began in 2019, is now 90% complete, with final touches expected by December 2024. The facility is receiving canopy shades for spectators and improved security lighting to support night events.
“These stadium projects are part of a larger national effort to improve sports infrastructure. We are ensuring that our facilities not only meet international standards but also benefit local communities by promoting talent development and creating business opportunities,” Mvurya noted.
The government’s broader strategy to enhance sports infrastructure includes upgrades to other stadiums across the country.
This is part of Kenya’s commitment to providing world-class facilities in readiness forAFCON 2027, which the country is set to co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda 
The developments at Bukhungu and Masinde Muliro Stadiums signal a new era for sports in Western Kenya, a region known for producing top-tier football talent.
Once completed, the facilities are expected to boost local football by hosting more national and international matches. Additionally, they will provide improved training grounds for aspiring athletes and create economic opportunities through sports tourism.
“As a county, we are excited about the opportunities this stadium will bring. It is not just about football; it’s about the businesses, jobs, and prestige that come with hosting major sporting events,” Barasa said.
As work continues, the government remains optimistic that Kenya will deliver on its AFCON 2027 commitments, ensuring that the country is ready to welcome the continent’s best football teams to world-class venues.
