FIFA President Gianni Infantino has received the official land deeds for a new Football Kenya Federation (FKF) technical centre, marking a major step in the development of Kenyan football under the FIFA Forward programme.
On his first official visit to Kenya since becoming FIFA President in 2016, Infantino met with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi.
The ceremony formalised the allocation of land in Machakos, where the new facility will be constructed with the support of FIFA’s development fund.
“I was honoured to be welcomed by President Ruto to discuss our beautiful game and to receive the deeds to the land on which the future of Kenyan football will be built,” said Infantino. “The new technical centre will serve as a hub for the national teams of today and as a beacon of hope for the footballers of tomorrow.”
He was accompanied by CAF President Patrice Motsepe, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström, FIFA Director for Member Associations Africa Gelson Fernandes, and FIFA Legend Houssine Kharja.
A $4.6 Million Investment in Kenyan Football
The proposed USD 4.6 million FIFA Forward project will be presented to the FIFA Development Committee later this year. Plans include:
One natural grass pitch, Two artificial turf pitches, An administration block, and Conference facilities
FKF President Hussein Mohammed is expected to oversee the project, with FIFA and CAF providing technical and strategic support.
“With this centre, we are laying foundations for sustainable growth of Kenyan football,” Infantino added. “Thanks to the Kenyan government and President Ruto’s commitment, the dream is becoming reality.”
Stadium Tour and CHAN 2024 Final
Earlier, Infantino and Motsepe visited the soon-to-be-completed Talanta Stadium, a 60,000-capacity facility that will be a showpiece of the 2027 CAF Africa Cup of Nations, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The visit coincided with the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 final at the Moi International Sports Centre. The tournament, reserved for players competing in domestic leagues, concluded with Morocco defeating Madagascar 3-2 to clinch a record third CHAN title.
“Congratulations to Morocco, who have won the CHAN, and to Madagascar for their fighting spirit. But above all, congratulations to Kenya for hosting such an incredible tournament,” Infantino said. “The atmosphere here in Nairobi was unbelievable. Kenyans love football, and they deserve the very best.”
A Landmark Day for Kenyan Football
The events marked a milestone for Kenyan football, combining investment in infrastructure, recognition of government support, and successful hosting of a continental tournament. With FIFA Forward backing and CAF’s partnership, Kenya looks set to play a greater role in African and global football.
