(KISUMU, KENYA) – President William Ruto has proposed renaming Kisumu International Airport after the late former prime minister Raila Odinga, with consultations already underway over the plan.
Speaking during a media engagement at Kisumu State Lodge on Monday, 14th September, Ruto said he was engaging the Kisumu county government and residents of the region on the possibility of giving the airport Raila’s name.
“I am in discussion with the county government here and the people of this region, with the possibility of renaming Kisumu International Airport, also as Raila Odinga International Airport, right here in Kisumu,” Ruto said.
The proposal would be another major move by Ruto to honour Raila, who died in October 2025 after decades at the centre of Kenya’s political scene.
Ruto also confirmed that Talanta Stadium in Nairobi will be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium when it is officially opened.
The president said construction was in its final stages, with lighting, water and audio systems undergoing testing and the playing surface being prepared.
He said the facility could be opened within the next month and that the government was considering teams to feature in the inaugural match.
“We are going to open Talanta Stadium now as Raila Odinga International Stadium,” Ruto said.
Ruto explained that the decision was driven by his respect for Raila, noting that both he and the late former Prime Minister supported Arsenal.
“Nobody is forcing us to do it. I’m doing it out of respect for the late Prime Minister, who was an Arsenal fan like myself,” he said.
The president highlighted several sports infrastructure projects being undertaken across Nyanza and other parts of Kenya.
He said a new stadium is being constructed in Migori, while the Homa Bay facility had been completed. The redevelopment of Moi Stadium in Kisumu is also ongoing, with work on a stadium in Siaya among other projects.
Ruto defended the government’s decision to commit sports funds towards stadium construction, arguing that the approach would ensure the money produces visible infrastructure rather than being misused.
He said the government plans to develop 32 stadiums across the country over seven years, with the facilities expected to provide young people with spaces to develop sporting talent.