Blow for Talanta Stadium works after Auditor General flags Ksh 1.2 billion expenditure

Kenya’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have suffered a setback after the recent Auditor General report raised concerns over financial irregularities in the construction of Talanta Stadium.

The 60,000-capacity facility, which broke ground on March 1, 2023, is expected to be completed by December 2025.

However, audit findings have cast doubt on the project's transparency and financial management.

Ksh11.5 billion of the Ksh14.2 billion transferred from the Sports, Arts, and Social Development Fund went to different sports federations.

According to the report, Ksh1.2 billion was spent on the grounds of Talanta Stadium, of which Ksh.300 million was not accounted for.

Nancy Gathungu, the Auditor General, questioned the expenditure, saying

"In circumstances, the value of money realized from the expenditure of Ksh1.22 billion could not be confirmed.”

Former Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba had assured that existing structures at Jamhuri Posta Grounds, where the stadium is being built, would remain intact.

However, the audit findings contradict this, revealing discrepancies in project execution.

The report also noted that the Sports, Arts, and Social Development Fund received KSh. 14.6 billion instead of the Ksh16.2 billion allocated, creating a Ksh 1.4 billion shortfall.

Additionally, Ksh 260 million was left unspent, further affecting key projects.

"The underfunding and underperformance affected the planned activities and may have impacted service delivery to the public," the report stated.

Compounding the challenges, the audit found that the project lacks an audit committee, raising concerns over transparency and accountability.

With neighboring Tanzania and Uganda making significant strides in their AFCON preparations, Kenya faces a race against time.

Will the country overcome these setbacks, or will it fall behind in its co-hosting duties?