With the clock ticking down to the highly anticipated TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has concluded its crucial final round of host nation inspections and readiness workshops across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, expressing confidence in the region’s preparations.
The rigorous inspection campaign kicked off in Nairobi on Friday, July 4, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
This iconic stadium, recently refurbished to a 50,000-seat capacity, is not only set to host Group A matches but also the grand tournament final on August 30, 2025.
The CAF delegation diligently wrapped up its Nairobi visit with a thorough assessment of Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday, July 5.
Following the comprehensive evaluations in the Kenyan capital, the CAF delegation proceeded to assess other key host venues, including Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Mandela National Stadium in Kampala (Uganda), and Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.
These meticulous site visits are paramount to ensuring that all stadiums and their supporting infrastructure meet CAF’s stringent requirements for staging international competitions of this magnitude.
Prior to the stadium tours, CAF also conducted comprehensive workshops with various departments of the Local Organising Committees (LOCs) in each host nation.
These crucial sessions focused on critical operational areas such as broadcasting and media operations, safety and security protocols, logistics and transport services, as well as team services and hospitality.
The workshops aimed to meticulously align all functional areas with CAF’s operational standards, ensuring seamless execution throughout the tournament.
Nicholas Musonye, the Chairman of Kenya’s LOC, expressed strong confidence in the nation’s preparedness to deliver a memorable tournament.
“We have been working tirelessly, day and night, to ensure everything is on track as we approach the tournament. The LOC has collaborated closely with CAF to adhere to the provided guidelines and timelines,” Musonye stated.
He further extended gratitude to the Kenyan government, acknowledging its vital support, “especially in terms of timely financing and approvals.”
Echoing this sentiment, Evans Achoki, Secretary of Administration at the Ministry of Sports, reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment. “The Government is fully committed and has worked hand-in-hand with the LOC to ensure seamless coordination at all levels,” Achoki emphasized. “Our goal is to deliver an unforgettable CHAN tournament — one that Africa and the world will remember. Kenya is ready.”
CAF’s inspection team will now compile its final assessments and provide recommendations for any remaining enhancements as the three East African nations gear up to host this historic co-hosted CHAN tournament.
The collaborative efforts between CAF, the LOCs, and the respective governments underscore the region’s collective determination to deliver a truly world-class football spectacle. The tournament is set to kick off on August 2, 2025, with Tanzania hosting the opening match.
