The government unveiled plans to introduce Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, alongside goal-line technology, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo Stadium during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) set for August and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums have been earmarked for use during the CHAN tournament, which was moved from February 2025 to August 2025 to give the host countries—Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—more time to prepare.
The arrival of VAR and goal-line technology in Kenya is not just about correcting officiating errors—it signals the country’s alignment with global football standards that prioritize fairness and accuracy.
VAR is a technology-assisted officiating system in football (soccer) designed to help on-field referees make accurate decisions.
It involves reviewing video footage to assist with key situations such as goals, penalties, red cards, and cases of mistaken identity.
Goal-line technology is an electronic system used in football to determine whether a goal has been scored by confirming if the ball has completely crossed the goal line.
It uses cameras and sensors to track the ball’s position and instantly alerts the referee when a goal is scored.
Inside Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums Upgrades
This landmark initiative, announced by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, marks the first time Kenya will use such advanced officiating systems.
Mvurya said the introduction of VAR and goal-line technology demonstrates a commitment to improving the integrity of the game, while also reflecting Kenya’s aspirations to elevate its standing in global football.
“Plans have been finalised to import the equipment for the African Nations Championship. It will be the first time the country uses this technology,” Mvurya stated.
Local Organising Committee (LOC) chair Nicholas Musonye echoed these sentiments, adding that the VAR system will be a permanent fixture for use beyond CHAN, including in local leagues and future tournaments such as the 2027 AFCON.
“We are acquiring the technology permanently, and it will be used to officiate local leagues thereafter,” Musonye said.
To meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) requirements, the government has made significant investments in upgrading Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums.
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Kasarani is set to host the CHAN final, closing ceremony, first quarterfinal, and all Group A matches involving Kenya.
The stadium will also serve as Harambee Stars’ training base throughout the tournament, scheduled from Saturday, August 2, to Saturday, August 30.
Kenya will kick off the tournament on Sunday, August 3, with a match against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at 3:00 p.m.
Mvurya confirmed that critical components—including the VAR system, giant LED screens, and a tartan track—have been installed at Kasarani.
Kasarani Gets VIP Seating, Artificial Turf, and CHAN-Ready Upgrades
According to photos shared by the CS, the playing surface is now fully mature, with the drainage and water sprinkler systems inspected and tested.
Since the original tartan track was damaged during construction and the new one has not yet arrived, an artificial turf has temporarily been installed around the running track. A new tartan surface is expected after CHAN.
Inside the stands, seats have been installed around the pitch, with classifications ranging from regular to VIP, VVIP, and the Presidential Box.
Regular seats have backrests but are not foldable. The VIP and VVIP sections have seen the most dramatic upgrades. VIP seats are foldable, while VVIP seating features cushioned, auditorium-style chairs with cup holders and ample legroom.
The Presidential Box is reserved exclusively for high-level guests, including presidents and top CAF officials, and will not be available to the public.
A Look Inside the Dressing Rooms
Photos of the revamped changing rooms reveal modern amenities meeting both CAF and FIFA standards.
Players will now benefit from modern amenities, including gym mats, individual lockers with charging ports, tactical boards, and Western-style washrooms.
Each of the five main changing rooms has over 25 lockers and more than five showers, providing a clean and spacious environment.
A dedicated Persons With Disabilities (PWD) washroom has also been included, complete with support bars. Additionally, massage tables, office desks, and chairs have been installed to enhance functionality.
Turnstiles at the stadium entrance are now complete, while the two training grounds have already passed CAF inspection.
The training pitches have been used recently by national teams and even hosted an FKF Premier League match between Mathare United and Bandari.
For fans, two large LED screens have been mounted inside the stadium to provide clear replays, match stats, and entertainment.
A new sound system has also been installed to improve public address and enhance crowd experience.
Other key additions include:
- Anti-doping rooms: Located near the changing rooms, designed to ensure privacy during sample collection. These rooms include private washrooms and showers, a waiting area with office chairs, and modern storage shelves.
- Kitchen: Situated beside the VIP area, the nearly complete kitchen allows for match viewing from inside and features installed shelves and space for a gas cooker.
- First Aid Rooms: Strategically placed for spectators’ use in case of emergencies, as per CAF requirements.
- Fans’ Lavatories: Renovated and cleaned, these now include Arabic-style toilets in general sections, while the PWD toilets remain Western-style and fitted with support bars.
Nyayo Stadium Gets Media Center, Night-Game Lights, and CHAN-Ready Makeover
At Nyayo Stadium, which passed inspection before the tournament’s postponement, upgrades have also been completed.
A detailed Stadium TV tour of the facility shows high-quality renovations.
Parking areas have been resurfaced, broken cabro blocks replaced, and proper markings added.
The VIP entrance’s glass façade has been cleaned and repaired, while the tunnel canopy—damaged during the last Mashemeji Derby—has been replaced and carpeted in green.
Nyayo’s VIP area now includes a new media center and a designated cameramen’s space beneath the roof. The Tribune can accommodate upto 86 Journalists.
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A manicured flower bed has been added to beautify the walkway to the pitch.
The playing surface is nearly ready, and signage reminds staff and visitors to avoid walking on the grass. Movable goalposts and electronic advertising boards are in place ahead of CHAN.
Dressing rooms, including the referees’ area with a refrigerator, have been completed.
One of Nyayo’s major improvements is its lighting system. Old floodlights have been replaced with new towers, enabling night matches and training.
A canopy installation is expected after CHAN, in preparation for AFCON 2027. Once installed, lighting systems may be relocated to the new structures—mirroring the setup at Kasarani.
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