Masai Ujiri's Zaria Group Sign Landmark Nairobi Arena Development Deal
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Nairobi is set for a major sports and entertainment infrastructure upgrade following a landmark agreement led by Masai Ujiri’s Zaria Group Limited.
The partners have signed a long-term lease agreement with the Kenya Railways Corporation to develop an arena-anchored mixed-use district in central Nairobi. The agreement, witnessed by President William Ruto in Nairobi, represents a significant step in positioning Kenya's capital as a regional hub for sports, entertainment, and cultural events.
The project is expected to generate more than 25,000 jobs annually and introduce world-class infrastructure designed to support athletes, artists, and the broader creative economy. Beyond the arena itself, the development is structured as an integrated district, aligning with a broader shift toward multi-use sports infrastructure that drives year-round commercial activity.
The investment reflects a long-term commitment to Nairobi's role within Africa's growing sports and entertainment economy, with a focus on unlocking local talent and expanding the city's ability to host global events.
““We aren’t just building a venue; we are building a home for future leaders, athletes, and artists,” said Ujiri. “We are building a legacy that proves greatness can begin anywhere, wherever the opportunity exists.” ”
Zaria Group's Expansion Strategy
Zaria Group Limited, backed by high-profile partners including Ujiri and Helios Sports & Entertainment Group, is positioning itself as a key developer and operator of sports and entertainment infrastructure across Africa.
The company operates across multiple verticals. Its portfolio includes QA Venue Solutions, a venue management, development, and commercialization firm, and Zaria Court, a mixed-use real estate platform focused on sports, hospitality, community, and culture.
Zaria Group already oversees the management and commercialization of Kigali Sports City in Kigali, which includes the 10,000-seat BK Arena, the 45,000-seat Amahoro Stadium, and its first Zaria Court development, opened in 2025. The project is being used as a blueprint for expansion into key markets including Nairobi, Lagos, Johannesburg, and Abidjan.
