Editor's Review

Kenya has been dealt a major blow after the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) banned Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums from hosting international competitions. 

Kenya has been dealt a major blow after the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) banned Nyayo and Kasarani from hosting international competitions. 

The ban follows an inspection conducted by CAF on the two stadiums ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 African qualifiers for matchdays 5 and 6.

"Based on the inspection report, we regret to inform you that the stadium did not meet the set minimum Caf stadium requirements and consequently will not be approved for the qualifying matches of the Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022 matchday five & six.

"Unfortunately, following the various temporary approvals given by CAF for the use of Mol International Sports Centre Kasarani Stadium in CAF competitions, the stadium still lacks several CAF criteria and requirements in order to properly host international senior competitions. As a result, we have taken the following decision," part of the statement by FIFA read.  


President Uhuru Kenyatta at Kasarani Stadium in September 2021

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has been advised to consider renovation and refurbishment of the facilities to enable future approval by CAF.

According to FIFA, Some of the issues FKF needs to take into account include modern architecture, design, and quality materials with clear plans and timelines.

"Based on the stadium ban decision, the stadium authorities should consider initiating a complete renovation and refurbishment work of the stadium, in order to ensure that the stadium is approved in the future for Caf competitions.

"We recommend that the renovation plan is based on modern architecture, contemporary design, and quality materials with a clear project plan and specific timelines. In order for Caf to follow the progress of the renovation works, we ask your federation to provide an action plan with the tasks and deadlines for the completion of the works in the stadium," FIFA said. 

The news comes barely a month after the country hosted World U20 competitions and in September hosted the Kip Keino Classic which attracted a number of international stars. President Uhuru Kenyatta was also in attendance.