Kenya, 9 December 2025 - Kapsabet’s Kipchoge Keino Stadium is set for a major change after Nandi Governor Stephen Sang announced plans to rename it William Ruto Stadium once reconstruction is complete.
The governor made the announcement on Monday during the opening of the new Kapsabet Municipality offices.
Governor Sang explained that the current name has caused frequent confusion because another Kipchoge Keino Stadium already exists in Eldoret. He said this mix-up has led to cases where projects intended for Nandi are mistakenly directed to Uasin Gishu. Renaming the facility, he said, will give it a clear identity and prevent future logistical problems.
The governor also said the new name is meant to recognise President Ruto’s role in supporting the upgrade. “Other places have stadiums named after national leaders. For us, this new stadium will honour President Ruto because he has ensured we get the resources to rebuild it,” he said.
The reconstruction is part of a larger national plan to build or upgrade 25 stadiums by 2027. President Ruto has said the goal is to give young people access to modern sports facilities so they can grow their talents and compete professionally. The project is also tied to the Talanta Hela initiative, which aims to help youth earn a living from sports and creative work.
In addition, the government hopes the improved facilities will help Kenya host major tournaments such as the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Officials say these events would boost tourism and create business opportunities in towns across the country.
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The stadium in Kapsabet will be relocated to the Kapsabet Showground and rebuilt as a modern arena with a seating capacity of 10,000. Construction is expected to create local jobs, while the finished stadium will support sports tourism and other economic activities in Nandi County.
Despite the name change, Governor Sang said Kipchoge Keino’s legacy remains deeply respected in Nandi.
He noted that the county will continue celebrating its athletics heritage even as it gives the stadium a new identity.
For now, residents are waiting for construction to begin, marking a new chapter for one of Kapsabet’s most important public spaces.








