Kasarani Stadium Gears Up for CHAN 2024: A Historic Moment for Kenyan Football
Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, is buzzing with anticipation as Kenya prepares to co-host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) alongside Tanzania and Uganda from August 2 to August 30, 2025. As the flagship venue set to host the tournament’s final on August 30, Kasarani has undergone a remarkable transformation to meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards, marking a significant milestone for Kenyan sports infrastructure.
A Revamped Kasarani Stadium
The 60,000-seater Kasarani Stadium has seen extensive upgrades to ensure it’s ready for the continental spotlight. Renovations, overseen by the Kenya Defence Forces, include a new Bermuda grass pitch, CAF-approved floodlights, modern dressing rooms, and enhanced seating arrangements. Large LED screens, a requirement for Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, replays, and in-stadium communication, have been installed, alongside a revamped media tribune, VVIP and VIP sections, and six fully equipped changing rooms—exceeding CAF’s minimum requirements. These upgrades have elevated Kasarani to CAF Category Four status, positioning it among Africa’s elite venues capable of hosting premier continental competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“The handover of Kasarani to the Local Organising Committee (LOC) is a critical milestone,” said Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya during the official ceremony in late June 2025. “Kenya is in top gear and fully prepared to host the tournament.” Posts on X echo this excitement, with users noting the installation of LED boards and ongoing branding efforts as the countdown to the tournament nears its final days.
Preparations Beyond the Pitch
Beyond the stadium’s physical upgrades, Kenya’s preparations for CHAN 2024 are comprehensive. The LOC, led by chairman Nicholas Musonye, has confirmed that training facilities like the Ulinzi Sports Complex and Police Sacco Stadium are ready for use by participating teams. Security measures are also in place, with 24 ambulances on standby, supported by St. John Ambulance and the Red Cross, and a robust multi-agency security plan covering airports to stadiums. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has emphasized a coordinated approach, including layered screening, accreditation controls, and crowd management to ensure safety throughout the tournament.
The Kenyan government is also leveraging CHAN as a dress rehearsal for the 2027 AFCON, which Kenya will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda. Musonye revealed that further upgrades to Kasarani are planned post-CHAN to meet AFCON standards, including replacing the current pitch with fresh Bermuda grass. These efforts aim to cement Kenya’s reputation as a premier destination for international sports events.
Harambee Stars and Fan Excitement
Harambee Stars, Kenya’s national team, will play all their Group A matches at Kasarani, facing DR Congo on August 3, Angola on August 7, Morocco on August 10, and Zambia on August 17. Coach Benni McCarthy has expressed optimism about the team’s chances, calling the challenging group a “golden opportunity” to shine on home soil. Fans are encouraged to turn up in national colors—red, green, black, and white—to create an electric atmosphere. Public transport options like matatus and boda bodas are recommended for easy access to the stadium, with organizers advising fans to arrive two hours early to enjoy the pre-match festivities.
However, preparations haven’t been without challenges. Recent posts on X highlighted tensions involving security trainees at Kasarani, who protested over pay disputes and mistreatment by a contracted firm. Additionally, CAF facilitators reportedly refused to conduct steward training due to unpaid allowances from prior assignments. Despite these hiccups, the LOC and government officials remain confident that all logistical issues will be resolved before the tournament kicks off.
A Legacy for Kenyan Football
The successful hosting of CHAN 2024 is expected to boost sports tourism, promote regional unity, and showcase Kenya’s organizational capabilities. “This is a moment of national pride,” said Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, urging Kenyans to fill the stands and support the Harambee Stars. With Nyayo Stadium also ready to host select Group A matches and other venues like Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and Uganda’s Mandela National Stadium prepared, East Africa is set to deliver a memorable tournament.
As the clock ticks down to August 2, Kasarani Stadium stands as a symbol of Kenya’s ambition to reclaim its place on the continental stage. With world-class facilities, robust security, and a passionate fanbase, Nairobi is ready to welcome Africa’s top home-based talent for an unforgettable CHAN 2024.
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