The development of a Ksh 600 million National Technical Centre in Machakos, which will serve as the headquarters of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), was among the goodies promised by FIFA President Gianni Infantino during his meeting with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi.
In an official statement released on Saturday, August 30, Ruto also disclosed preparations for the 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) as another item on the agenda of the meeting in Infantino’s first-ever visit to Kenya.
The meeting, attended also by Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe, took place just hours before the final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
“At State House, Nairobi, I met FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, ahead of the CHAN 2024 finals between Morocco and Madagascar at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani,” Ruto noted.
“We discussed preparations for AFCON 27 and the development of a Sh600 million National Technical Centre in Machakos, supported by FIFA to host the FKF Headquarters,” he added.
In light of the upcoming AFCON tournament, which Kenya is set to co-host with Tanzania and Uganda, Ruto cited the ongoing construction of the Talanta Stadium and other modern sports facilities across the country as measures being taken to ensure preparations are at full speed.
“These investments will strengthen grassroots sports, nurture talent, and firmly place our sports on the global stage,” he asserted.
Infantino in Kenya
FIFA President Infantino made his maiden visit to Kenya on Saturday, August 30, landing at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to grace the 2024 CHAN final.
He was received by FKF President Hussein Mohammed and other officials, and later proceeded to the FKF headquarters in Nairobi.
Mohammed said Infantino’s visit underscored the global recognition of Kenya’s successful hosting of the continental tournament.
“On behalf of the Kenyan football family, I warmly welcome FIFA President Gianni Infantino to Kenya for the first time, as we gear up for the CHAN 2024 final,” Mohammed said in a statement.
CHAN Final
The final pitted two-time champions Morocco against the island nation of Madagascar, who are out for their first-ever title.
The game kicked off at 6pm at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, bringing down the curtain on a gruelling 30-day tournament.
