Football clubs based in Kisumu County will temporarily relocate their home matches following the official handover of Moi Stadium to the contractor for extensive renovations.
The project, which seeks to upgrade the facility into a 10,000-seater, FIFA-standard stadium, is valued at KSh 800 million. It is funded by the national government and is being supervised by the Ministry of Defence, with construction expected to take 12 months.
Moi Stadium has long served as a key venue for league and cup fixtures involving Kisumu-based clubs and visiting teams. Its closure means all league matches scheduled to be played in Kisumu will now be hosted at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium during the renovation period.
To maintain training routines, clubs will utilise alternative facilities within Kisumu City, including the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Complex (formerly Kisumu Sports Ground), Kasagam Secondary School, Kisumu Day High School, and the YMCA. Club officials have indicated that training schedules will be adjusted to accommodate shared use of the grounds.
The temporary relocation is expected to present logistical challenges, particularly in matchday operations, fan attendance, and revenue streams. However, stakeholders within the local football community have welcomed the development, viewing it as a necessary short-term sacrifice for long-term gains.
Once completed, the upgraded Moi Stadium is expected to meet FIFA requirements, enabling Kisumu clubs to host high-profile FKF Premier League matches, domestic cup fixtures, and potentially international competitions. The modernised facility is also anticipated to improve player welfare, fan experience, and commercial opportunities for clubs.
The Moi Stadium renovation is part of a broader national drive to modernise sports infrastructure and is widely seen as a significant boost for football development in western Kenya, strengthening Kisumu’s status as a regional sports hub.