Boost for Kenyan Football as Ruto Rallies Private Sector to Back FKF Development Agenda Ahead of AFCON 2027

Football in Kenya could be set for another game-changing boost as President William Ruto, alongside Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed, alongside his members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) hosted a rallying call at State House on Wednesday.

The meeting aimed at rallying the Private Sector to invest into Kenyan football infrastructure and talent development ahead of the continent’s marquee event, the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027.

In August, Kenya's co-hosted 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) with Uganda and Tanzania—branded under the Pamoja initiative—served as a compelling springboard.

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 The tournament proved to be a successful trial, showcasing Kenya’s capability to host continental competitions and galvanizing enthusiasm across the football ecosystem 

Ruto reaffirmed that the journey to AFCON 2027 begins now, emphasizing the critical role of grassroots investment, enhanced governance, and robust public-private collaboration.

 He further underscored the urgency of infrastructure readiness, including stadium upgrades like Nyayo, Kasarani, and the under-construction 60,000-capacity Talanta Sports City Stadium, slated for completion by December 2025.

Administration plans also include building 25 new stadia nationwide, alongside expanding 37 constituency sports academies to nurture talent from every corner of the country.

Meanwhile, a landmark Ksh 1.12 billion, 10-year sponsorship deal between FKF and a leading gaming firm has injected fresh financial momentum into Kenyan football—with 60% channelled directly to league clubs and 40% allocated for operational stability 

The federation also signed a six-month partnership with The Kenya Tourism Board last August, as it continues looking for more partners in order to make the football ecosystem sustainable.

Before the final of CHAN 2024 last week, FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced a USD 4.6 million (~Ksh 595 million) investment under the FIFA Forward programme for a new FKF technical centre in Machakos County—another vital piece in Kenya’s strategic football expansion