Government adds three more fan zones in Nairobi ahead of CHAN quarters

Football lovers at the Nairobi CBD (Archives) fan zone for the Kenya vs Zambia match/LEAH MUKANGAI

The government has increased the number of official fan zones in parts of Nairobi from 10 to 13, to give more Kenyans an opportunity to rally behind the national team.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya announced that new fan zones will be established in Ruiru, Dagoretti’s Camp Toyoyo, and Babadogo.

The three will now join the existing zones at Uhuru Park, Archives, Dandora, Jacaranda, Clay City, Githurai, Kibra DC Grounds, and Lucky Summer in Kasarani.

“The expansion of fan zones is aimed at broadening access for fans and ensuring that every Kenyan has a chance to be part of this national moment,” Mvurya said.

In a statement, the CS also welcomed county governments and private stakeholders to set up additional fan zones across the country.

He noted that such partnerships would provide alternative venues for fans to enjoy the games.

He, however, stressed the need for coordination with the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to safeguard safety, security, compliance with the law, and consistency in the fan experience.

“All partners, community leaders, and organisers must work closely with the LOC to protect the tournament’s reputation while ensuring fans are safe and well catered for,” Mvurya added.

The establishment of the zones follows a high-level security meeting a week ago attended by CAF Head of Safety and Security Christian Emeruwa, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, and senior security officials.

The decision came in the wake of chaotic scenes during Kenya’s group-stage clash against Morocco on August 10.

The thrilling victory for the hosts was overshadowed by security lapses, gates were broken, ticketless fans forced entry, restricted areas were breached, and overcrowding reached dangerous levels.

Outside the venue, tear gas was reportedly used to control crowds.

CAF responded by fining the Football Kenya Federation Sh6.45 million (USD 50,000) over safety breaches and warning that repeat incidents could see national team matches relocated or Kenya barred from hosting in the future.

Additional penalties for earlier lapses in the DR Congo match included Sh644,500 for stampede and unauthorised entry, and Sh1.29 million for the assault and obstruction of CAF officials and guests.

Under CAF’s fresh directives, stadium attendance has been capped at 60 per cent capacity, about 27,000 fans, with entry strictly limited to holders of digital tickets.

The government has since filed an appeal for CAF seeking to have the order lifted.

Harambee Stars play Madagascar Friday in the quarter finals of the African Nations Championships (CAF).

Big screens have been placed at each of the locations to give fans without tickets a safe and organised way to watch the game.

The CS also assured that all these venues will be secured by adequate police officers to maintain order and safety.