The ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament has not only brought football excitement to Kenya but also created a fresh opening for sports tourism.
On Monday, the Angola National Team took their time away from the pitch to experience the world-renowned Nairobi National Park.
In a video by the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), they said the visit displayed how sports can boost Kenya’s tourism profile.
“What a pleasure it was to host the Angolan National Football team at Nairobi National Park! Connecting through sports and sharing our unique wildlife heritage,” KTB said.
The team’s visit to the park was part of a wider initiative to promote Kenya as a sports and tourism destination.
For some, it was the first time to see animals such as lions, giraffes, and rhinos in their natural habitat.
Players and officials enjoyed the rare opportunity to see wildlife just a few kilometres from the city centre, an experience that is unique to Nairobi.
Speaking during the tour, the team’s defender Eddie Afonso said;
“The park being within the city is a very nice experience.”
The Director of Communications Angola Football Federation Eric Goncalves said it was his first time visiting the park.
“We could see so many kinds of animals, which is amazing, and of course I will have to tell my kids, family about the experience,” Goncalves said.
Many posed for photos with the city skyline in the background, blending urban scenery with wildlife.
The CHAN tournament, which brings together teams from across Africa, has already boosted hotel occupancy and local businesses in Nairobi.
Ariclene Oliveira, on the han,d appreciated the hospitality they had received during their visit.
“We have experienced excellent hospitality and even facilities. The way people have been treating us has been amazing,” Oliveira said.
“This is a different and totally unforgettable experience.”
The Kenya Tourism Board underscored the importance of using such events to rebrand the country.
The CHAN tournament continues in Nairobi this week, with Kenya set to face Madagascar in the quarterfinals clash on Friday.
Angola, however, failed to qualify for the group stages of the ongoing CHAN as they fell 2-0 at the hands of DR Congo on August 14.
The team only managed to win against Zambia, beating them 2-1.
They drew 1-1 with Kenya and lost to Morocco 2-0.
