President William Ruto has announced plans to transform Kenya’s sports infrastructure following diplomatic discussions with International Federation of Association Football President Gianni Infantino aimed at expanding the nation’s football capabilities.
According to an official tweet posted on President Ruto’s official X account on Thursday September 25, 2026, the Head of State met with global football executives on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
“Kenya is strengthening its partnership with FIFA to develop football talent and grow the game. I held talks with FIFA President Gianni Infantino on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. We discussed regional technical centers to identify and nurture young talent, strengthen grassroots football and create clear pathways for the next generation of Kenyan players.” Stated the president.
Expanding on the government’s direct commitment to sports development, President Ruto revealed the funding directed toward football venues nationwide that aims to position Kenya as a leading sporting nation.
“Alongside this partnership, the Government is investing significantly in sports infrastructure, including the construction of 32 new stadia across the country. These modern facilities will meet international standards and support our ambition to position Kenya as a leading sporting nation.” Said the president
The announcement comes at a time that Kenyan team is preparing to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
The planned 32 modern sporting facilities are expected to decentralize football administration, ensuring grassroots talent from rural counties gains access to top-tier training grounds and stadium infrastructure.
However, the major announcement regarding long-term infrastructure investment coincides with immediate operational and welfare challenges affecting Kenya’s flagship national football team.
Harambee Stars Refuse to Train and Call for President Ruto’s Intervention
While President Ruto was announcing international partnerships in New York, back home the national team, Harambee Stars, made headlines by refusing to step onto the pitch for their scheduled training sessions.
The national squad downed tools and boycotted training ahead of their 2027 AFCON qualifier against Eritrea at Nyayo National Stadium, demanding urgent government intervention and direct talks with President Ruto or top Sports Ministry leadership.
The player strike was triggered by several welfare grievances, including unpaid allowances dating back to past international assignments against Senegal and Lesotho, amounting to approximately KSh 80,000 per player.
Additionally, the players raised serious concerns over sub-standard hotel accommodations during home and away fixtures, as well as punishing travel itineraries involving extended layovers on cheap flight bookings.
The standoff forced the Ministry of Sports to issue an emergency statement confirming the processing of all outstanding allowances, emphasizing that while the country builds 32 new stadia for the future, current player welfare remains vital to Kenya’s immediate sporting success.
