President William Ruto has clarified that Nairobi’s Talanta Stadium will be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium once it officially opens, ending speculation about whether the facility would retain its original name.
Speaking during an interview on September 14, Ruto said he had already made his position known on the matter and that the naming of the stadium was intended to honor the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
“I already pronounced myself that Talanta Stadium is going to be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium,” the President said.
The Head of State explained that the stadium is nearing completion, with only a few final touches remaining before it is ready for commissioning.
According to Ruto, contractors are finalizing critical installations, including lighting, water systems and audio equipment, while the playing surface has already been prepared.
He expressed optimism that the facility would be ready for opening within the next month, adding that plans were underway to organize a high-profile match to mark the occasion.
“We are looking for some teams to come and play the first match. We are going to open Talanta Stadium now as Raila Odinga International Stadium,” he said.
Ruto on Talanta Stadium Renaming
Ruto dismissed suggestions that there had been pressure to rename the stadium, insisting the decision was voluntary and driven by his respect for the former opposition leader, who died last year.
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“Nobody has forced me to do it. I am doing it out of respect for my good friend Raila Odinga, who was also an Arsenal fan like me,” Ruto stated.
He noted that Raila’s contribution to the country’s political and democratic development deserved recognition through national monuments and institutions.
The President also revealed that the proposed renaming of the stadium is part of a broader effort to preserve Raila’s legacy ahead of the first anniversary of his death next month.
Ruto said the government is working closely with Raila’s family to organize commemorative events and complete projects associated with the late statesman.
First Anniversary Plans
Among the projects underway is the construction of Raila’s mausoleum and the upgrading of the mausoleum of Kenya’s first Vice President, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
The President said he expects the work to be completed before the anniversary so that the family can use the site during remembrance activities.
“We are working with the family towards organizing the first anniversary. The government will support the family in making sure that whatever is planned reflects the statesman that Raila was,” he said.
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Ruto further disclosed that discussions are ongoing with leaders and the Kisumu County government over the possibility of renaming Kisumu International Airport after Raila.
If approved, the airport would become Raila Odinga International Airport, adding to the list of national landmarks associated with the former Prime Minister.
The Talanta Stadium project is among several sports facilities being developed or upgraded across the country under the government’s sports infrastructure program.
The President said his administration is also investing in stadiums in Migori, Kisumu, Siaya and Homa Bay as part of efforts to strengthen sports development and prepare Kenya to host major international events.
Ruto also defended his administration’s decision to commit Sports Fund revenues for the next seven years to finance stadium development across the country.
He acknowledged criticism over the move but maintained that the funds were being used to modernize sports infrastructure and create facilities capable of hosting international competitions.
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