A new era is taking shape in Kapsabet town, Nandi County, where the construction of the Kipchoge Keino Stadium is steadily progressing into a landmark sports facility expected to transform athletics, football and community development in the region.
The stadium, once a dream for local athletes who trained on rough murram surfaces, is set to feature a modern tartan track and world-class facilities that will position Nandi as a leading sports destination.
The Sh800 million project is a joint initiative between the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the Ministry of Sports, aimed at developing sporting infrastructure, nurturing talent and boosting economic activities in the region.
The groundbreaking ceremony held in December 2025 marked a major milestone, with leaders describing the project as an investment in Kenya’s sporting future.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya said the facility would provide young athletes with an opportunity to train and compete in an environment that meets international standards.
“This stadium is a symbol of our commitment to sports excellence. It will be a place where our young athletes can train, compete and dream on a world-class platform,” she said.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang said the facility would strengthen the county’s reputation as the cradle of champions by creating a structured pathway for upcoming athletes.
“Nandi has always been the cradle of champions. With this facility, we are turning that legacy into a tangible pipeline that will guide our next generation to international acclaim,” Sang said.
The stadium design reflects the ambition of hosting major sporting events. It will have a seating capacity of 10,000 people, expandable to 15,000, a World Athletics-certified 400-metre tartan track and a FIFA and CAF-approved football pitch.
Additional facilities will include a multi-purpose indoor arena, media centre, athlete lounges and other amenities designed to support both sporting and community activities.
More than a year after construction began, the site has become a hive of activity, with ongoing works involving concrete laying, steel installation and preparation of sections of the athletics track.
The KDF engineering team, led by Project Manager Daniel Okoth, said major foundation and substructure works have been completed while maintaining required safety and quality standards.
“We have maintained a disciplined schedule and rigorous quality controls. Our goal is to deliver a facility that meets international standards without compromising safety or sustainability,” Okoth said.
Beyond sports, the project is expected to create economic opportunities. Construction activities have already generated employment opportunities, while local businesses such as hotels, transport operators and food outlets continue to benefit from increased demand for goods and services.
Grace Njeri, a café owner near the construction site, said business has improved due to increased activity in the area.
“During construction, I have seen more people coming through the town. Once the stadium is finished, I expect even more visitors, which will help my business,” she said.
The facility is also expected to encourage youth participation in sports by providing schools and community groups with access to professional training grounds.
Moses Rono, a high school athlete, said the stadium represents hope for young sportspeople who have long lacked access to quality facilities.
“Seeing the concrete rise here in Kapsabet is like watching our dreams take shape. When the stadium opens, we will compete in a venue that meets international standards right here at home,” he said.
The construction team has outlined a phased opening plan, with the inaugural athletics meet expected in June 2027. Football matches are planned to begin later in the year, while full community use, including conferences, concerts and international events, will commence in 2028.
Governor Sang said the county is already exploring opportunities to host continental competitions, including the African Athletics Championships.
“We are already eyeing the African Athletics Championships in 2029. If we can secure that bid, it will put Nandi on the global map and inspire countless young athletes,” he said.
The Kipchoge Keino Stadium represents a broader government strategy to expand Kenya’s sporting infrastructure beyond traditional athletics and create opportunities for multiple sporting disciplines.
By Sammy Mwibanda
