Ndindi Nyoro Claims Talanta Stadium Will Cost Ksh145B, Reveals Ruto’s ‘Off the Books’ Loans

Ndindi Nyoro Claims Talanta Stadium Will Cost Ksh145B, Reveals Ruto’s ‘Off the Books’ Loans

Mombasa, Kenya – Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro has raised fresh concerns over Kenya’s debt levels, alleging that the government is engaging in “off the books” borrowing to finance major projects, including the Talanta Stadium along Ngong Road.

Speaking during the 42nd Annual Seminar Edition II of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) in Mombasa, Nyoro claimed the 60,000-capacity stadium would ultimately cost taxpayers Ksh145 billion, far above the officially reported Ksh45 billion construction budget.

“The economy of Kenya is projected to be around Ksh16.9 trillion. The debt in Kenya is around 12.5 trillion. So when we talk about the debt-to-GDP ratio, we must never massage the denominator. It is over 70 per cent debt-to-GDP ratio,” Nyoro told delegates.

Stadium Financing Concerns

Nyoro alleged that the stadium’s financing plan involves repayments through the Sports Fund, requiring the government to remit Ksh500 million every month for 15 years. He argued that while the initial debt stands at Ksh45 billion, accumulated interest would push the total repayment to Ksh145 billion.

“At the end of 15 years, from a debt of Ksh45 billion, Kenya will pay interest of Ksh100 billion. So the total cost of the Talanta Stadium will be Ksh145 billion,” he said.

The MP, who previously chaired the Budget Committee before being ousted, has positioned himself as a vocal critic of opaque government borrowing practices. He insisted that while borrowing is not inherently wrong, transparency is essential to safeguard public finances.

Hidden Obligations

Beyond the official public debt of Ksh12.5 trillion, Nyoro claimed the government is accumulating concealed obligations through mechanisms such as securitisations and bank-backed advances tied to fuel levy collections. He warned that these hidden liabilities are worsening Kenya’s debt position, pushing the country closer to unsustainable levels.

“I am not opposed to borrowing. But Kenyans must be told the truth. We cannot continue hiding obligations in off-the-books arrangements while the debt burden grows heavier,” Nyoro added.

Government Position

Despite Nyoro’s claims, the Ministry of Sports has maintained that the Talanta Stadium project is progressing well. Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya revealed earlier this week that construction is more than 65 per cent complete.

“External works are expected to be done by December, while the facility is expected to be ready by February 2026,” Mvurya said.

The stadium, envisioned as a flagship sports complex, is expected to host international events and provide a modern venue for Kenyan athletes.

Broader Debt Debate

Nyoro’s remarks come amid growing public debate over Kenya’s debt sustainability. Economists have repeatedly warned that rising debt service costs are crowding out development spending, while political leaders continue to clash over the government’s borrowing strategy.

The lawmaker’s claims are likely to intensify scrutiny of the administration’s financial management, particularly as Kenya prepares for several large-scale infrastructure projects.

Conclusion

As construction of Talanta Stadium nears completion, questions over its financing and Kenya’s broader debt position remain unresolved. Nyoro’s allegations of hidden borrowing highlight the need for greater transparency in public finance, while government officials continue to defend the stadium as a critical investment in Kenya’s sporting future.

With the facility expected to open in early 2026, the debate over its true cost may linger long after the final whistle is blown.

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Ndindi Nyoro Claims Talanta Stadium Will Cost Ksh145B, Reveals Ruto’s ‘Off the Books’ Loans