ODM National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has praised President William Ruto for responding positively to calls to rename the Talanta Sports City Stadium in Nairobi to the Raila Odinga International Stadium.
Speaking Thursday in Gwasi, Suba South, Wanga described the renaming as a fitting tribute to the late ODM Party Leader, whose contributions to politics and sports in Kenya have left an indelible mark.
Wanga recalled that during Raila's burial ceremony in Bondo in October, she publicly urged the President to honour the former Prime Minister by renaming the 60,000-seat stadium.
"In honour of Raila Odinga, who is lying here, we want you to rename the 60,000-capacity stadium from Talanta to Raila Odinga Stadium,” she said at the time, highlighting Raila's passion for football and commitment to sportsmanship.
Her call today received further support from Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, who joined in amplifying the request, signalling broad appreciation for the late leader’s legacy across party lines.
Sakaja said the gesture would be a fitting honour to the former PM and would help keep his memory alive.
"We know that next year, Jamhuri celebrations will be held at the new Talanta Stadium that is still under construction," Sakaja said.
Turning to the President, he added, "I don't know if you will allow us as Nairobians for the facility to be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium."
Governor Wanga expressed gratitude to Ruto for heeding the request, describing the renaming as a symbol of national unity and recognition of Raila’s enduring influence in Kenyan politics and sports.
“We thank President William Ruto for accepting our request. This honour reflects the deep respect Kenyans have for Raila and his lifelong dedication to our nation,” she noted.
The stadium, currently known as Talanta Sports City, is one of Kenya’s premier sports facilities, hosting major football matches and athletics events.
Its renaming to Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium is expected to preserve Raila’s legacy while inspiring future generations of athletes.
Speaking during the Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium, Ruto confirmed that the stadium would be renamed once construction is completed early next year.
“I have heard what the Governor of Nairobi has said, that the Talanta Stadium should be given what name? Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium? I have heard you. And when we finish it, we will do that,” he said.
Talanta Stadium, also known as Talanta Sports City, is located at the Jamhuri Grounds along Ngong Road, past Dagoretti Corner, near The Junction Mall.
The 60,000-capacity stadium is in its final construction stages and is expected to be ready by March 2026.
It is designed to host major national and international sporting events, as well as cultural and community activities.
The Sh45 billion facility is one of the main venues designated for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), scheduled for June 19 to July 18, 2027.
Construction is currently at 70 per cent.
The exterior structure is already taking shape, the pitch is being prepared and supporting infrastructure, such as access roads, is in the penultimate phase.
