Kenya is buzzing with anticipation as the nation prepares to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
The final seal of approval came from Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Salim Mvurya, who concluded his inspection tour on Wednesday, expressing unwavering confidence in the country’s readiness to stage the biennial continental football showpiece.
CS Mvurya’s comprehensive assessment began at the bustling Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), where he meticulously reviewed the arrival protocols and logistical arrangements put in place for the various visiting delegations.
Speaking with palpable satisfaction after the airport inspection, Mvurya assured the nation that Kenya is fully prepared to extend a warm welcome to all participating teams and officials. “We have confirmed the protocols of arrivals of the delegates of CHAN.
We have gone through the port head, immigrations, customs and finally the waiting tent. As a government, we are satisfied with the arrangements that have been put here,” Mvurya stated, his words echoing the meticulous planning behind the scenes.
Earlier in the day, the CS had toured the iconic Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums, two pivotal venues set to host the CHAN 2024 matches. He heaped praise on the significant progress and high quality of work achieved at both facilities, a testament to the dedication of local teams.
Mvurya passionately emphasized that a successful tournament would not merely be a government triumph but a shared achievement, underscoring the collective responsibility of all Kenyans. “I am pleased with the work done at the stadiums.
Hosting CHAN successfully will not only be a government achievement but a collective responsibility for all Kenyans,” he asserted.
The CS cast a visionary outlook, expressing hope that a well-executed CHAN would bolster Kenya’s reputation, potentially paving the way for bids to host even larger tournaments, including the prestigious FIFA World Cup, especially if the AFCON 2027 also proceeds as planned.
As Harambee Stars, under coach Benni McCarthy, intensify their preparations for CHAN 2024, they received a significant morale boost from an unexpected quarter.
Bunge FC, a team comprising Members of Parliament, Senators, and Parliamentary Service Commission staff, stepped forward to offer tangible support.
Speaking on behalf of the legislative squad, Rarieda Member of Parliament Otiende Amollo announced a generous donation of KSh 1 million to the national team.
“As Bunge FC, we fully support the team and we will be part of the crowds to cheer the team. Further, we will donate a further one million shillings to act as an extra motivation to the team,” a committed Amollo pledged.
The Harambee Stars are set to kick off their CHAN campaign against DR Congo on August 3 at the Moi Kasarani Stadium.
Four days later, McCarthy’s charges will face Angola at the same venue, before concluding their group stage fixtures against regional heavyweights Morocco on August 10.
The stage is set, and the nation holds its breath for a memorable tournament on home soil.
