Ruto Approves Plan to Rename Talanta Stadium After Raila Odinga

President William Ruto has agreed to rename the new Talanta Stadium—once its construction is complete—as the Raila Odinga International Stadium in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The idea gained momentum during Kenya’s 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo National Stadium, where the proposal was raised publicly in front of the President.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, in his speech, urged President Ruto to consider the wishes of Nairobi residents who want the upcoming stadium to carry Raila Odinga’s name. The crowd responded with loud cheers, showing strong support for the proposal.

President Ruto, while outlining the government’s ongoing plans to upgrade major sports facilities, including Nyayo Stadium, agreed to the request.

“You know the good work going on at Talanta Stadium. And after listening to the Nairobi Governor, you people want it renamed to which name?” he asked. The stadium erupted with the crowd shouting, “Raila Odinga!”

Ruto then confirmed the government would honour the request:
“You have said it should be renamed Raila Amolo Odinga International Stadium. I have heard you, and once construction is complete, we will do exactly that.”

The renaming of Talanta Stadium will follow legal procedures.