If you are planning on carrying a whistle, vuvuzela or
even a flag to wave during the African Nations Championship (CHAN) games, then
you are out of luck.
The tournament’s Local Safety and Security
Department has released a list of prohibited items in the stadiums, including
the aforementioned.
“We urge all fans to comply with stadium
rules and maintain calm. Let us show up in large numbers to support the
Harambee Stars and ensure a safe tournament,” the department said.
It has also banned all noisemaking devices
including drums, loudspeakers and megaphones.
Spectators are not allowed to carry foods into the
stadiums, except for medical reasons or for infants.
Additionally, powder substances such as flour and
baking powder are also prohibited.
Drinks will also not be allowed in. This is including
holding containers like cups, bottles and cans, and any capped or sealed
containers.
“Flags or banners targeting politics, race, gender,
religion, nationality or personal identity will not be allowed into the stadium,”
the department said.
All animals, including household pets, are banned, except
for certified service dogs.
Electronic, musical or telecom equipment that can jam
signals or disrupt broadcast, IT or tech systems, are also on the ban list.
Dangerous items including weapons like firearms and
ammunition, real or replica, explosives, flammable materials, chemical
substances, breakable items and helmets are on the red list.
This is also including items like cooler boxes,
suitcases and folding chairs.
The rules apply to all game venues in Kenya, Tanzania
and Uganda, which are co-hosting CHAN 2024.
The ban is part of heightened security and safety
protocols ahead of the regional football tournament, which kicks off on
Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The first game in Kenya will be held at Moi
International Sports Centre, Kasarani, at 3pm, being Kenya vs DRC.
The tournament end on Saturday, August 30, at Kasarani
Stadium.
The East African hosting marks preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will also be held in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
