Kenyans during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo National Stadium on December 12, 2025. /LEAH MUKANGAINyayo National Stadium erupted into prolonged cheers on Friday after Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja proposed that the new Talanta Stadium on Ngong Road be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium upon completion.
In his address during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations attended by thousands of Kenyans as well as local and international dignitaries, Sakaja said the gesture would be a fitting honour to the former Prime Minister 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 President William Ruto, he added, "I don't know if you will allow us as Nairobians for the facility to be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium."
The crowd erupted at the mention of Raila’s name, cheering wildly and making enthusiastic hand gestures as Sakaja repeatedly asked whether they supported the proposal.
Raila died on October 15 of cardiac arrest while undergoing treatment in India, leaving behind a political legacy that spanned more than four decades.
Leaders from Kenya and across the world described him as a towering statesman, a champion of democracy and justice, a fearless freedom fighter and a unifying force in Kenyan politics.
Tributes highlighted his role in Kenya’s second liberation, his pan-Africanism and his ability to rise above political divides, with figures such as Ruto, former US President Barack Obama, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and former President Uhuru Kenyatta praising his dedication and willingness to sacrifice for the country.
Talanta Stadium, also known as Talanta Sports City, is located at the Jamhuri Grounds along Ngong Road, past Dagoretti Corner, near The Junction Mall.
It is a large, modern football-specific stadium under construction and is designed to meet world-class standards.
Talanta Stadium /X
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, with completion expected latest March 2026, in time for the tournament.
The exterior structure is already taking shape, the pitch is being prepared and supporting infrastructure, such as access roads, is in the penultimate phase.
At the close of his speech, President Ruto acknowledged the overwhelming public support for the proposal to rename the stadium after Raila.
"Nimewasikiliza na tukikamilisha tutafanya hivyo (I have heard you, and when we complete, we will do that)," he said.
President William Ruto during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium on December 12, 2025. /LEAH MUKANGAI
Earlier, the President had led the country in observing a one-minute silence in honour and remembrance of Raila.
"Raila devoted his life to the pursuit of freedom, justice and peaceful co-existence. His courage, resilience and unwavering belief shaped defining chapters of our national story and inspired generations to believe that change is possible," he said.
This year’s Jamhuri Day was themed “Promoting Tourism, Wildlife Conservation, and The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) Industry.”
