Harambee Stars' Daneil Sakari and Ryan Ogam during training/ HANDOUTWith less than 48 hours to the opening whistle, the tension in Nairobi is palpable.
Kenyans across the country are holding their breath, anticipating the first kick of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), a tournament celebrating local footballing talent, and for the first time, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The Moi Stadium, Kasarani, and the historic Nyayo Stadium have been repolished and refortified—ready to welcome thousands of passionate fans.
But this year’s CHAN isn’t just about the game. It’s about the experience, safety, and the statement Kenya is determined to make as a capable footballing host.
Digital Tickets Only: Welcome to a New Era
To streamline attendance and enhance control, the Ministry of Sports, in collaboration with the Local Organising Committee (LOC), has introduced an all-digital ticketing system.
"There will be no physical tickets accepted at the gates," announced Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya.
"All tickets must be purchased online through the official CHAN portal. Payments can be made via M-Pesa or debit/credit card."
Once payment is confirmed, ticket holders will receive a digital confirmation via SMS or email, which they must present at the gate.
For those without smartphones, cyber cafés have been designated as access points to help fans purchase tickets.
This new approach aims to curb fraud, overcrowding, and scalping—a notorious challenge at previous events.
Security like never before
In anticipation of large crowds and in the spirit of ensuring fan safety, the CHAN security protocol is extensive and non-negotiable. Four layers of screening will be enforced at both stadiums:
Leave the Vuvuzela at home
In a move that may disappoint the most boisterous fans, the LOC has imposed a sweeping ban on items that traditionally define African football energy.
Banned items include: Vuvuzelas, megaphones, whistles, and loudspeakers, drums and any noise-making devices, flares, fireworks, and firearms.
Also included are sharp objects or projectiles, political or offensive signage, signal jammers or electronic interference devices, large backpacks and motorcycle helmets.
Organisers have also banned takeaway food and drinks, and pets (except service animals).
"If it explodes, offends, blocks, blasts or distracts, it stays outside," read a stern LOC guidance notice.
Also barred is any food brought from outside, unless it’s for babies or individuals with medical conditions.
What fans can bring
Still, organisers are not blind to the joy and culture that football brings. Permitted items include: national flags, team jerseys and mobile phones.
Kenya’s big day: All eyes on Harambee Stars
The Harambee Stars, under head coach Benni McCarthy, are set to face DR Congo in their CHAN opener on August 3 at Kasarani Stadium. It's a tough start, considering DR Congo’s pedigree in African football—but the home support could make all the difference.
"We are focused. The boys are fired up," McCarthy told journalists after the final training session. "This is a rare opportunity to play in front of our people. We won’t waste it."
McCarthy’s final 25-man squad includes some of the FKF Premier League’s standout names, including players from title winners Kenya Police FC and second-place finishers Gor Mahia FC.
Group A: The Group of fire
Kenya is pooled in Group A, alongside DR Congo, Morocco, Zambia and Angola.
Stadium Upgrades: What’s new at Kasarani and Nyayo?
The Ministry of Sports confirmed that both stadiums have undergone crucial upgrades, including refurbished turf and drainage, improved seating and signage, enhanced media and broadcasting infrastructure, modernised VAR rooms and match officiating technology.
The government also expanded parking and fan holding zones
"We’ve spent months preparing, and the results are clear," said Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi. "This is not just about football—it’s about Kenya on the continental map."
Tournament overview
Tournament: African Nations Championship (CHAN)
Dates: August 2 – August 30
Hosts: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania
Kenya's first match: August 3 vs DR Congo
Venues (Kenya): Nyayo Stadium, Moi Stadium, Kasarani
