The Ministry of Sports has announced six dedicated fan zones across Nairobi for Sunday’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) fixture between Kenya and Zambia, in a bid to curb the security breaches that marred last weekend’s match against Morocco at Kasarani.
Harambee Stars 1-0 triumph over Morocco drew an overwhelming crowd, with hundreds of supporters forcing their way into Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, without valid tickets.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said the newly designated fan zones will deliver the same electric matchday atmosphere while easing pressure on the stadium. The fan zones will be located at Uhuru Park (CBD), Lakisama–Ngomongo area behind Kasarani Stadium, Dandora Stadium, Utalii (Stima Club), Jacaranda grounds and Kibera DC grounds.
“These zones, strategically located within Nairobi’s neighbourhoods, will allow fans to watch the match on large screens in a safe, well-managed environment, while easing crowd pressure on Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani," Mvurya said.
"The zones will bring the stadium atmosphere closer to the people while helping us manage attendance at Kasarani in line with CAF’s requirements,” he said.
Mvurya lauded the passionate backing Kenyans have shown Harambee Stars but urged supporters to match their enthusiasm with discipline and compliance.
"We have assured the Confederation of African Football (CAF), CAF that the government will support FKF to ensure that Kenyans conform to the standards and regulations."
"The heightened security measures and awareness campaign will enlighten Kenyans on what is expected of them," he added. The CS appealed to supporters to help safeguard Kenya’s hosting reputation and avoid sanctions.
“We understand the excitement and joy following Harambee Stars’ performance, but we must exercise restraint and avoid actions that contravene CAF regulations. That is the highest form of patriotism,” he said.
Following a high-level meeting with CAF officials, FKF, the Local Organising Committee and senior National Police Service officers, the Government has rolled out enhanced security for both Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums
Measures include thorough checks at entry points, ticket scanners for instant verification, and tighter security inside and around the venues.
"The Government has received reports of attempts to circulate counterfeit tickets, and in response, we have engaged the ticketing office to implement strict authentication measures to ensure that only genuine ticket holders gain access,” he noted.
The CS stressed that these measures aim to protect fans from fraud, maintain order and uphold the tournament’s integrity.
