The decision is in honour of the late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, recognising his significant contributions to Kenya’s political and social development.
The announcement came after growing calls from the public, which intensified during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
The announcement came after growing calls from the public, which intensified during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
During the event, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja publicly requested the President to consider renaming the stadium, reflecting the wishes of local residents who wanted the facility to carry Raila Odinga’s name.
Responding to the appeal, President Ruto assured the audience that the stadium would indeed be named after the former leader once construction is complete.
Responding to the appeal, President Ruto assured the audience that the stadium would indeed be named after the former leader once construction is complete.
“I have heard what the Governor of Nairobi has said, that the Talanta Stadium should be given what name? Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium? I have heard you. And when we finish it, we will do that,” the President said.
The stadium is designed to host up to 60,000 spectators and is currently in its final construction phase, with completion expected by March 2026.
The stadium is designed to host up to 60,000 spectators and is currently in its final construction phase, with completion expected by March 2026.
It will accommodate both national and international sporting events, cultural performances, and community gatherings. Officials say the modern facility will enhance Kenya’s ability to host major regional and global events.
The renaming is part of a broader government strategy to promote national unity and celebrate Kenyans who have made lasting contributions to the country’s democracy.
The renaming is part of a broader government strategy to promote national unity and celebrate Kenyans who have made lasting contributions to the country’s democracy.
President Ruto highlighted that the project aligns with his Bottom-Up Economic Transformation agenda, which connects infrastructure development with opportunities for youth empowerment and community engagement.
“Just as we empower farmers and strengthen our agricultural sector, we must also invest in our youth, sports, and national facilities,” the President said during his address.
“Just as we empower farmers and strengthen our agricultural sector, we must also invest in our youth, sports, and national facilities,” the President said during his address.
He emphasised that sports, recreation, and community facilities play an equally important role in building a strong and united nation.
During the celebrations, the President interacted with the crowd, asking them which name they preferred for the stadium. The response was unanimous: “Raila Odinga!” President Ruto confirmed that the stadium’s name would be officially changed to Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium.
The renaming process will follow legal and administrative procedures, beginning with a formal proposal submitted by Governor Sakaja.
During the celebrations, the President interacted with the crowd, asking them which name they preferred for the stadium. The response was unanimous: “Raila Odinga!” President Ruto confirmed that the stadium’s name would be officially changed to Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium.
The renaming process will follow legal and administrative procedures, beginning with a formal proposal submitted by Governor Sakaja.
The proposal will be reviewed by government ministries, including Sports, Lands, and Public Works, before being submitted to the Cabinet for approval.
Public consultations and stakeholder engagement will ensure the change aligns with existing laws governing public facilities and heritage sites.
Once officially approved, the new name will be published in the Kenya Gazette. Stadium signage, tickets, maps, and digital records will all be updated accordingly.
Once officially approved, the new name will be published in the Kenya Gazette. Stadium signage, tickets, maps, and digital records will all be updated accordingly.
A ceremonial unveiling is expected to mark the stadium’s official inauguration, attended by the President and other key stakeholders.
Supporters of Raila Odinga have welcomed the decision, describing it as a fitting tribute to a leader who has shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.
Supporters of Raila Odinga have welcomed the decision, describing it as a fitting tribute to a leader who has shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.
Many highlighted his role in advancing multi-party politics, championing the new constitution, and promoting national reforms.
Some critics have questioned naming public facilities after political figures, but the government insists the decision is about unity and recognition, not politics.
Some critics have questioned naming public facilities after political figures, but the government insists the decision is about unity and recognition, not politics.
