CHAN 2024: Kenya Steps Up Preparations With Final Security Assessment Ahead of Tournament Kick-Off

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With just under three weeks to go before the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), Kenya has reaffirmed its readiness to deliver a safe, secure, and world-class football tournament as part of its co-hosting duties with Uganda and Tanzania.

Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Internal Security, Kipchumba Murkomen, led a high-level government inspection of the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadium—two of the tournament’s main venues in Nairobi.

He was accompanied by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, as they also reviewed designated training facilities across the city.

“We want to assure Africa and the rest of the world that Kenya is fully prepared to host CHAN 2024 in a secure and welcoming environment,” Murkomen said.

He noted that comprehensive security protocols have been implemented across all key locations—from airports and hotels to stadiums and fan zones—to ensure a smooth experience for players, officials, and supporters alike.

CAF Approves Readiness, Visa-Free Entry for All African Nationals

The inspection tour came shortly after a final Confederation of African Football (CAF) delegation visit, during which all CAF-recommended upgrades and safety measures were signed off.

In a landmark move to boost fan attendance and regional unity, Kenya also announced visa-free entry for all African nationals for the duration of the tournament—from August 2 to August 30.

“We’ve inspected Nyayo, Kasarani, and the training facilities, and we are confident of our level of preparedness,” Murkomen added.

“Kenya is not only ready but determined to offer a memorable CHAN experience.”

Government Leaves Nothing to Chance

Echoing the same confidence, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya emphasized that the government has reviewed contingency plans, access control systems, crowd management strategies, and digital ticketing platforms.

“As a government, we’ve left nothing to chance,” Mvurya said.

“CHAN 2024 is not just a football tournament—it’s a moment of national pride and a platform to showcase Kenya’s hospitality, infrastructure, and organizational capacity.”

Tournament Fixtures and Opening Ceremony

The tournament officially kicks off on August 3 at the Kasarani Stadium, where hosts Kenya will face two-time champions DR Congo in the Group A opener. Later that day, Nyayo Stadium will host a high-profile clash between 2018 champions Morocco and Angola.

The final is scheduled for August 30 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

CHAN 2024, which features national teams composed exclusively of players active in domestic leagues, promises to be a landmark event in African football. This is the first time Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania will co-host a CAF tournament, making it a significant milestone for East African football development.

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