Harambee Stars Erick Otieno vies for the ball with Tawanda Chirewa of Zimbabwe during an African Cup Nations qualifier at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda on September 6, 2024/XINHUA
Posta Rangers head coach Sammy 'Pamzo' Omollo reckons Harambee Stars have a perfect opportunity to lift the 2024 Africa Nations Championship after Kenya landed the rights to host the final at Moi Stadium, Kasarani.
The Confederation of African Football (Caf) entrusted the refurbished Moi Stadium in Kasarani, Nairobi, to host the final match on August 30, 2024.
The venue, a symbol of Kenya's sporting ambition, is poised to witness a celebration of talent and determination as it transforms into a battleground for national pride.
The championship is making a historic return to East African territory for the first time since the 2016 edition, which was held in Rwanda.
Omollo said this is a moment that the national team should seize the opportunity with both hands to uplift their spirits and inspire the nation.
"They ought to take advantage of the occasion and honour us. This should motivate them to work hard because I'm sure they don't want to disappoint Kenya.
"It would be very disappointing if the final at Kasarani would pit foreign teams. We must plan effectively to be in the finals," he said.
"The importance of hosting CHAN cannot be overstated. It serves as a platform for domestic-based players to showcase their skills on an international stage, offering them a rare opportunity to shine in front of local fans," Omollo said. The first game will take place on August 2 at Tanzania's Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar-es-salaam.
The other co-host, Uganda, has been designated to host the third and fourth matches of the event, which is tailor-made for domestic-based players.
Originally scheduled for February 1–28, the championship was postponed to allow the host countries to make sure their facilities were prepared. CHAN will serve as a dress rehearsal for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), which the three East African nations will co-host.
"Moreover, the tournament acts as a precursor to the 2027 Afcon, which will also be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Omollo said the host nations have a perfect opportunity to demonstrate their capability to organise a major international event, showcasing not only their sporting prowess but also their hospitality and organisational skills.
"The lessons learned, the infrastructure developed, and the camaraderie fostered during CHAN will undoubtedly lay the groundwork for a successful Afcon.
During the three-week event, some games will be played at Nyayo Stadium, which is also undergoing renovations, in addition to Kasarani.
In a significant and inclusive decision, Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar was chosen as one of the official venues, highlighting Caf's objective to expand the geographic reach of its primary competitions. Amaan Stadium recently garnered recognition for its organisation and fan support after hosting the CAF Confederation Cup final between Simba SC and RSB Berkane in May 2025.
The event garnered international attention. Following consultation with the three nations hosting the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda (CHAN) 2024, Caf announced the venues for the competition's opening, third, fourth, and final matches.
Tanzania's Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam will host the opening Chan tournament on August 2.
