Ruto pledges 28 more Talanta-style stadiums, earns congratulatory handshake from worker

President William Ruto has said the government will build 28 more stadiums of similar capacity and standards to the Talanta Stadium as part of efforts to expand sports infrastructure across the country.

Speaking on Thursday during an inspection tour of the Bomas International Convention Complex, Ruto said the days when major sports facilities were concentrated in Nairobi were coming to an end.

"That Talanta Stadium, we are building 28 more. In fact today, I was with the people of Turkana — even in Lodwar — we are building a stadium," he said.

Located at Jamhuri Grounds along Ngong Road, the Raila Odinga Talanta International Stadium is a 60,000-seat facility under construction in Nairobi.

The Sh49 billion project, which has surpassed 91 per cent completion, is expected to be completed by the end of July 2026 and is among the facilities earmarked to host matches during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ruto said the government's sports infrastructure programme is intended to ensure development reaches all parts of the country.

"Stadiums were only known around here in Nairobi, but I said we must walk together as Kenya. Every corner of Kenya must progress and that's why I said we have no place for divisive, tribal politics. We want to unite and be together," he said.

The President was addressing workers involved in the renovation and upgrade of the Bomas of Kenya into the Bomas International Convention Complex.

Moments after his remarks on national development and unity, one of the workers stepped forward and shook the President's hand in apparent appreciation of the message.

"Two term," the worker shouted, signalling support for Ruto's re-election bid in the 2027 General Election.

The President responded with laughter before jokingly attributing the enthusiasm to the man's profession.

"This guy is a painter. I see he's about paints," Ruto said.

The moment unfolded as the government continues to roll out infrastructure projects, including the Affordable Housing Programme, initiatives the administration says have created jobs for thousands of young people nationwide.

Ruto urged the workers to remain committed to their duties, saying every Kenyan had a role to play in advancing the country's development agenda.

"I'm also working hard, I'm here and there — at the G7, back home arranging things until things move forward and Kenya becomes known. I value you and I'm impressed. You guys are the engineers of this thing? I congratulate and salute you," he said.

While serving as Deputy President in the administration of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Ruto campaigned on a promise to expand sports infrastructure during the 2013 and 2017 election cycles.

Since taking office, his administration has maintained and broadened that commitment, pledging to construct 28 new stadiums as part of a wider plan to deliver up to 39 sports facilities across the country.