Nandi Governor Stephen Sang has addressed concerns about the ongoing development of the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Kapsabet, following reports that the stadium would be renamed in honor of President William Ruto.
In a statement released on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, the Nandi Governor stated that government officials held talks focused on the significant changes to the region’s sporting and athletics infrastructure.
Sang confirmed that the Kipchoge Keino Stadium, originally situated on an eight-acre parcel, has been relocated to a larger 15-acre section carved out of the Kapsabet Showground.
The move, he said, was necessary to create space for a modern, state-of-the-art facility capable of hosting a wide range of sporting disciplines beyond athletics and football, which the current stadium accommodates.
The governor added that the new stadium will continue to honor the legacy of Kipchoge Keino, Kenya’s celebrated athletics icon, while also acknowledging Nandi’s heritage as the birthplace of global athletic talent.
He further expressed his gratitude to President William Ruto for his commitment to development, noting that the project aligns with President Ruto’s vision to position sports as a transformative sector in Kenya.
“The new Kipchoge Keino Stadium will not only celebrate the extraordinary achievements of Kipchoge Keino but also reinforce our identity as the birthplace of world-class athletes. It will further cement the President’s legacy as a leader committed to advancing sports,” Governor Sang noted.
Renaming of Kipchoge Keino Stadium
Sang addressed concerns over potential confusion between the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Kapsabet and the existing facility in Eldoret, assuring stakeholders that efforts are underway to preserve and clearly distinguish the identities of both stadiums.
“We are working closely with all stakeholders to ensure clarity and maintain the historical significance of these iconic venues.”
The governor’s statements come amid growing debate among residents and sports enthusiasts over the renaming of the stadium.
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Speaking in Kapsabet during the inauguration of the new Kapsabet Municipality offices on December 8, Governor Sang announced plans to rename the Kipchoge Keino Stadium to William Ruto Stadium.
“Because we have another Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, we will rename the one in Kapsabet to William Ruto Stadium. There is no harm in naming our facility after President Ruto.”
According to Governor Sang, the millions spent by President Ruto’s administration on the sports facilities justify the renaming of the stadium to his name.
“In Kenya, we have Raila Odinga Stadium, Moi Stadium, and many more. So why should we not rename ours after all these good deeds to Nandi County by the president?”
Sang further supported his proposal by stating that the renaming is important to avoid confusion with the stadium in Eldoret and to prevent funds intended for Nandi County from being misdirected.
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Governor Sang stated that his administration is planning to rename the stadium in good faith to benefit the people of Nandi, and that the last two years of his tenure as governor will be filled with strategic developments.
Supporters of the renaming argue that it would recognize President Ruto’s role in driving infrastructure development. At the same time, opponents insist that Kipchoge Keino’s name should remain untouched to honor his contribution to athletics.
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