Kenya Races Against Time to Host 2024 African Nations Championship
Kenya is facing a tight deadline to finalize preparations for co-hosting the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
Last week, inspectors from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) visited the country to assess its readiness for the tournament. They warned that there is still substantial work to be done to meet the December 31 deadline.
The CHAN tournament, which is reserved for locally-based players, is scheduled to take place from 1 to 24 February 2024 and will feature 19 teams.
Unlike Uganda and Tanzania, which each have a FIFA/CAF-approved stadium, Kenya currently does not have any stadiums that meet international standards.
Uganda will be hosting matches at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, while Tanzania will be using the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam. Both countries have already set up Local Organisation Committees (LOCs) for the tournament, a step that Kenya is yet to take.
The CAF inspection team evaluated Kenya’s proposed venues, including the 60,000-seat Moi International Sports Centre (MISC) Kasarani and the 30,000-seat Nyayo National Stadium. They also reviewed training grounds such as Police Sacco Stadium, Ulinzi Sports Complex, MISC Annex, and Kenya Academy of Sports.
Key issues at Kasarani include incomplete canopy, sound system, and lift installations. Although the stadium is reported to be 71% complete, it must be fully functional by the deadline.
Nyayo Stadium requires floodlights, while Police Sacco Stadium and MISC Kasarani Annex need new changing rooms to qualify as training venues. Additionally, upgrades are needed for the pitch at Ulinzi Sports Complex.
Kipchumba Murkomen, Kenya’s Sports Cabinet Secretary, has given assurance that the renovations at Kasarani will be completed on time, with contractors working around the clock to meet the deadline.
During the inspection visit, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Nairobi’s hotels were found to be satisfactory for the tournament.
The delay in establishing an LOC in Kenya is reportedly due to adjustments being made to the committee structure. A joint steering committee, comprising members from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania’s LOCs, will oversee the organization of the tournament.
