Kenya is on track to deliver a landmark project with the construction of Talanta Stadium, set to be the first stadium in Africa with a retractable roof. The ambitious Ksh44 billion project, one of the country’s most high-profile infrastructure undertakings, is part of preparations to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking during a construction site visit on Thursday, September 11, Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo confirmed that the retractable roof will transform the stadium into a dynamic, all-weather facility suitable for diverse events.
“This feature will make Talanta Stadium a vibrant hub for community activities,” said PS Omollo.
Unlike fixed-roof stadiums, the retractable system allows for real-time adjustment based on weather or event requirements. It ensures optimal playing conditions, improved spectator comfort, and increased revenue potential by enabling year-round use for concerts, national celebrations, exhibitions, and cultural festivals.
The adaptable roof can be opened on sunny days to provide an open-air experience or closed during harsh weather, ensuring minimal disruption due to rain or strong winds. This flexibility also reduces the likelihood of event cancellations, enhancing reliability for organizers and fans alike.
Additionally, a closed roof amplifies crowd noise, significantly boosting the match-day atmosphere during key sporting events.
From a pitch management perspective, the technology allows natural grass to thrive under ideal conditions. The roof can be opened to provide sunlight and fresh air or closed to protect the turf from harsh elements, reducing dependency on artificial turf.
Engineering Marvel Behind the Roof
According to PS Omollo, the retractable roof is being assembled using a computerized hydraulic tension cable lifting system, a rare and cutting-edge technology in global stadium engineering.
“Only a handful of stadiums around the world have employed this type of lifting system. Kenya will be the fifth country to adopt it,” he stated.
However, available research indicates that at least eight stadiums globally have implemented this advanced system.
The mechanism combines powerful hydraulic jacks and high-strength cables managed by a centralized computer. This allows the entire roof to be safely assembled at ground level and lifted into place with high precision drastically reducing labor costs and construction timelines.
This “big lift” technique, while not used in daily operations, is essential for constructing complex, large-span roofs with a high safety threshold.
World-Class Facilities
Talanta Stadium is also being fitted with modern facilities that meet international standards. These include:
Seven changing rooms
VIP lounges
Advanced media centres
Modern locker rooms
Video Assistant Referee (VAR) booths
Goal-line technology
Once completed, the stadium will be fully equipped to host major international tournaments and offer seamless live broadcast capabilities.
The project is expected to be completed by December 2025 or early 2026, just in time for AFCON 2027.
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