He confirmed that the newly built Talanta Stadium will officially be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium once construction is completed.
This decision came after growing public calls, especially from Nairobi residents, who wanted the modern sports complex to honour the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for his decades of contribution to Kenya’s political and social growth.
The renaming proposal gained momentum during Governor Johnson Sakaja’s address at Nyayo Stadium.
Sakaja openly appealed to President Ruto, saying many Nairobi residents had expressed their desire to see the stadium carry Raila Odinga’s name.
His words were met with loud cheers from the crowd, a clear sign that the idea had strong public support.
When President Ruto took the stage, he first spoke about the government’s wider plan to upgrade stadiums across the country, including Nyayo and Kasarani.
He then turned his attention to the matter raised by Sakaja.
“You know the good work happening at Talanta Stadium,” he said.
“And having listened to the Nairobi Governor, you people want the stadium to be renamed to which name?”
The crowd immediately shouted, “Raila Odinga!”
In response, the President said he had heard the people’s wishes loud and clear.
He promised that once the stadium is fully completed, the government will approve the renaming to Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium.
The reaction at the stadium showed just how significant this moment was for many Kenyans, especially those who felt the former Prime Minister deserved national recognition of this level.
Even though the President publicly supported the idea, there is an official procedure that must be followed before the name change becomes valid.
1. Formal Proposal:
A request—such as the one made publicly by Governor Sakaja—is forwarded for review by the relevant government offices.
2. Review by Ministries:
Ministries such as Sports, Lands, and Public Works must examine the proposal. They check whether the renaming meets regulations governing public property and national monuments.
3. Cabinet or Presidential Approval:
After ministry review, the request is forwarded to the Cabinet or directly to the President for the final green light.
4. Public Consultations:
The government then engages the public, stakeholders, and community representatives to ensure everyone’s views are heard.
5. Legal and Contract Checks:
All agreements related to the stadium—especially with contractors or sponsors—are reviewed to avoid conflicts.
6. Gazette Notice:
Once everything is cleared, a formal gazette notice is issued.
This is what makes the new name official in government records.
7. Implementation:
After gazettement, all stadium signage, maps, digital platforms, tickets, and official documents are updated to reflect the new name.
A grand ceremony often follows, where leaders officially unveil the newly named facility.
Recent photos from the construction site show major progress at the Talanta Sports City.
Workers are finalizing key installations, and the modern design reflects the government’s ambition to develop world-class sports infrastructure.
Once completed, Raila Odinga International Stadium is expected to host major national and international sporting events, bringing fresh opportunities to athletes and local businesses.
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