The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has stepped in to address venue shortages in the ongoing FKF Premier League, following the impending closure of several key stadiums and pitches as part of preparations for co-hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
According to a statement from the FKF president on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the league organiser has reached out to the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to help secure alternative venues and ensure the league fixtures go on uninterrupted.
The foregoing comes after the president held a meeting with officials from the KDF to address the ongoing challenges that have prompted the federations and clubs to seek alternative grounds.
Shortfall
“Discussions focused on identifying alternative venues to ensure uninterrupted league operations as Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums undergo preparations for AFCON 2027, while also exploring infrastructure development initiatives to address the current shortfall,” part of the statement from the president read.
Sports Kenya Director Timothy Kilimo, on February 6, 2026, issued a circular notifying the temporary closure of the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Stadium, to pave the way for Phase II upgrading works meant to align with Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards.
FKF PL clubs have been forced to grapple with the shortages, with some teams moving their home matches to Wanguru Stadium in Kirinyaga County.
According to the statement, the contractor is scheduled to commence work this month, February 2026, to complete the outstanding scope of the project in readiness for the continental showpiece.
Kasarani closed
“This is to notify you of the closure of the main stadium and its annexes at MISC and to request that upcoming events be moved to alternative venues,” read part of the communication addressed to all federations.
Joint AFCON hosting
Kenya is jointly preparing to host the 2027 AFCON alongside its East African neighbours (Tanzania and Uganda), making the upgrade of key facilities such as Kasarani a critical component of the country’s hosting commitments.
Kasarani, Nyayo National Stadium, and the under-construction Talanta Stadium have been earmarked to stage the 2027 AFCON matches in Nairobi.
