The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) looms large, and all eyes are on Kenya as the East African nation works to finalise stadium construction ahead of the tournament’s opening on 2 August.
Selected to stage key fixtures alongside Uganda and Tanzania, Kenya is under pressure to complete renovations at primary venues, including Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi.
While five training grounds were listed for inspection, only the Ulinzi Sports Complex currently meets CAF standards, casting doubt on Kenya’s ability to deliver in time.
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Despite mounting logistical challenges, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) remains confident. Myke Rabar, CEO of the LOC, told Telecomasia that collaboration with government agencies has been consistent and constructive.
“We have been working very closely with the government to deliver a successful CHAN and we remain very confident that everything will fall in place,” said Rabar.
“CAF officials have been with us throughout. We are constantly updating them, and they have given us immense support.”
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CAF’s Secretary General, Veron Mosengo-Omba, recently inspected facilities in Nairobi. Though progress was acknowledged, he urged Kenyan authorities to accelerate completion efforts.
CAF boss Patrice Motsepe inspecting the Kasarani Stadium
CAF has set a strict July deadline for final stadium approvals and full operational readiness. The warning underscores the tight timeframe for Kenya to meet international standards, amid fears that delays could impact its role as a co-host.
Failure to comply could lead to a scaling down of Kenya’s hosting responsibilities — a blow to national ambitions to reassert leadership in African football.
The challenge now lies in turning construction zones into championship arenas in time for Africa’s premier home-based players’ tournament.
