The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), Africa’s premier tournament exclusively featuring home-based footballers, is set to take place from August 2 to 30, 2025.
In a historic first, the tournament will be jointly hosted by three East African nations—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda—marking a significant milestone in regional collaboration and a crucial preparatory step for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
What is CHAN?
Unlike the Africa Cup of Nations, which features the continent’s best players regardless of where they play, CHAN is unique in that it only allows players active in their national domestic leagues to participate.
This means no European-based stars, but rather a platform for local talent to shine on the continental stage. The tournament has become a vital showcase for emerging players, often serving as a springboard for moves to bigger leagues abroad.
Hosting the tournament: A first for East Africa
The decision to have Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda co-host CHAN 2024 was made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on December 17, 2023.
This triple-hosting arrangement is unprecedented in the tournament’s history and reflects a growing trend toward regional cooperation in African football.
It also serves as a dress rehearsal for the 2027 AFCON, which the same trio of nations will host.
Qualified teams and tournament format
Nineteen teams will compete in the tournament, including heavyweights and past champions such as Senegal (defending champions), Morocco (two-time winners), and DR Congo (record holders with two titles).
Other notable participants include Nigeria, Algeria, Zambia, and debutants Kenya and Central African Republic. Libya, initially qualified, withdrew due to scheduling conflicts.
The teams are divided into four groups: Groups A, B, and C will each have five teams, while Group D will have four. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stages, culminating in quarter-finals, semi-finals, a third-place playoff, and the final.
Why CHAN 2024 matters
CHAN 2024 is more than just a football tournament; it is a celebration of Africa’s football roots and homegrown talent.
It offers players a chance to gain continental exposure and attract international scouts’ attention. Many African stars, including Tresor Mputu, Given Singuluma, Aoytub El Kaabi, Soufiane Rahimi, and Aymen Mahious, have used CHAN as a launching pad for their careers.
Moreover, the tournament symbolizes a strong regional partnership among East African countries and provides a critical test of infrastructure and logistics ahead of the 2027 AFCON.
CAF’s emphasis on CHAN underscores its role as a key driver of football development across the continent.
Key dates
- Final Draw: January 15, 2025, Nairobi
- Tournament Dates: August 2–30, 2025
As the countdown begins, CHAN 2024 promises to be a landmark event that will elevate African football’s local leagues and celebrate the continent’s unsung heroes.
