Ruto hints at renaming Kisumu Airport to Raila Odinga International Airport

President William Ruto has suggested renaming Kisumu International Airport to honor the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Discussions are underway with the Kisumu County government and local residents to rename the airport as "Raila Odinga International Airport." Ruto made the announcement during a media engagement at Kisumu State Lodge on September 14, 2026, during his four-day development tour of Nyanza.

In addition, Ruto confirmed that Talanta Stadium in Nairobi will also be renamed "Raila Odinga International Stadium" when it opens. The stadium is almost complete, with final stages including testing of lighting, water systems, audio equipment, and grass planting. It could be officially inaugurated within the next month for the first match.

Ruto emphasized the renaming is out of respect for the late prime minister, who was a sports fan like himself. The naming proposal extends beyond Nairobi, with talks on renaming Kisumu Airport as well. The Talanta Stadium project is part of Kenya's preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Uganda and Tanzania.