The County Government of Uasin Gishu has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the completion of the multi-billion-shilling modernization of Kipchoge Stadium, a key sports facility earmarked for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea said the county administration is working closely with the national government and relevant agencies to ensure the iconic stadium is completed within the stipulated timelines and meets international standards required for major sporting events.

Kapkea made the remarks during an inspection tour of the facility alongside sports stakeholders and government officials to assess the progress of ongoing construction works.

The Deputy Governor noted that Governor Dr Jonathan Bii's administration remains fully committed to fulfilling all county obligations necessary for the successful implementation of the project.

"We are diligent in our roles and responsibilities to ensure the completion of Kipchoge Stadium. The county government remains ready to provide all the necessary support, including matters relating to land, water and other critical services required to facilitate the successful completion of this important project," said Kapkea.

He described the stadium as a transformational investment that will not only elevate sports development in the county but also unlock significant economic opportunities for residents through sports tourism, business growth and job creation.

"Kipchoge Stadium is more than just a sporting facility. It is an investment in the future of our youth, our athletes and the economy of Eldoret and the wider North Rift region," he added.

Named after legendary Kenyan athlete Kipchoge Keino, the stadium occupies a special place in Kenya's sporting history. Situated in Eldoret, widely regarded as the home of champions, the facility is expected to become one of the country's premier sporting venues once modernization works are completed.

The North Rift region has produced some of the world's greatest athletes and continues to dominate international athletics competitions, making the stadium's location strategically important for sports development.

The project forms part of the national government's ambitious sports infrastructure development programme spearheaded by President William Ruto, which seeks to construct and modernize more than 30 stadiums across the country.

Government officials say the initiative is intended to strengthen Kenya's capacity to host major international sporting events while nurturing talent at the grassroots level.

During the inspection, Sports Kenya Director General Timothy Kilimo expressed confidence that the project is progressing well and will be completed before the end of the year.

Kilimo revealed that the upgraded facility will have a seating capacity of 30,000 spectators and will feature modern amenities designed to meet international sporting standards.

"We expect the stadium to be completed by December this year. Once complete, it will be among the leading sports facilities in the country and will significantly enhance Kenya's ability to host regional and international competitions," he said.

The Sports Kenya boss noted that the facility will provide athletes with world-class training and competition grounds while also serving as a venue for football, athletics and other sporting disciplines.

He said the project is a key component of Kenya's preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will mark the first time East African nations jointly host the prestigious continental tournament.

Kipchoge Stadium has been identified as one of the venues under the East African Pamoja Bid, which successfully secured hosting rights for AFCON 2027.

The tournament is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across Africa and beyond, presenting significant opportunities for investment, tourism and economic growth.

Officials believe the upgraded stadium will position Eldoret as a major sports destination while enhancing the county's profile on the continental stage.

Beyond football and athletics, the facility is expected to host a wide range of sporting and entertainment events, contributing to the growth of the local economy.

Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, transport operators and traders, are expected to benefit from increased visitor numbers once the stadium becomes operational.

County officials said supporting infrastructure and utilities are equally important to the success of the project.

Kapkea emphasized that the county government is coordinating with agencies responsible for water supply, electricity and land management to ensure all necessary services are in place before completion.

The inspection tour brought together key stakeholders involved in the implementation of the project, underscoring the collaborative approach being adopted to fast-track the works.

Among those present were County Executive Committee Member for Sports Robert Kemei, County Executive Committee Member for Lands Edward Sawe, Education Chief Officer Eng. Lucy Ng'endo, Eldowas Chief Executive Officer Dr Lawrence Tarus, Chief Officer for Sports CPA Victorine Kapkiai and representatives from Kenya Power.

The officials reviewed ongoing construction activities and discussed measures aimed at addressing any challenges that could delay completion of the project.

Residents and sports enthusiasts have welcomed the progress made so far, expressing optimism that the upgraded stadium will help nurture emerging talent and restore Eldoret's status as a premier sporting hub.

For years, athletes from the region have relied on limited facilities despite the area's reputation as a global athletics powerhouse.

The completion of Kipchoge Stadium is expected to bridge that gap by providing modern facilities capable of hosting local, national and international competitions.

With construction gathering momentum and stakeholders expressing confidence in the timelines, attention is now turning to the final phases of the project as Kenya intensifies preparations for AFCON 2027.

If completed on schedule, Kipchoge Stadium will stand as one of the flagship sports infrastructure projects in the country and a lasting tribute to Kenya's rich sporting heritage.

For Eldoret residents, the facility represents not only a world-class stadium but also a symbol of progress, opportunity and the enduring legacy of Kenyan athletics.