The Confederation of African Football has yet again postponed the 2024 CHAN tournament, owing to a number of challenges ahead of the draw set to be held in Nairobi on Wednesday.
Kenya, alongside co-hosts Uganda and Tanzania, has welcomed the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to postpone the African Nations Championship (CHAN) from February to August 2025. This decision comes as a major relief for the host nations, particularly Kenya, which has been racing against time to complete critical infrastructure developments.
CAF’s Decision and Justification
The postponement was announced following recommendations from CAF’s Technical and Infrastructure Committee, which highlighted the need for additional time to ensure that stadiums, training grounds, and other facilities meet the required standards for a successful tournament.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe expressed satisfaction with the progress made but emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards.
“I am impressed with the ongoing construction and renovations of the football infrastructure and facilities in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. I am confident that the stadiums, training fields, hotels, hospitals, and other infrastructure will meet CAF standards for hosting a very successful CHAN tournament in August 2025,” Motsepe said.
OFFICIAL STATEMENT: CAF has announced the postponement of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (“CHAN”) Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda 2024. Originally scheduled for February 1-28, the tournament will now take place in August 2025.
https://t.co/tARaC5Nm62 pic.twitter.com/UySNCNYxzt
— CAF Media (@CAF_Media) January 14, 2025
Kenya’s Challenges and Progress
Kenya faced significant challenges in preparing for the original February deadline. The country had earmarked Kasarani Stadium and Nyayo National Stadium as primary venues but was behind schedule in completing the necessary renovations.
The postponement provides a lifeline, allowing Kenya more time to finalize critical infrastructure upgrades. The Kenyan government has been working tirelessly to meet CAF’s stringent requirements, with President William Ruto personally overseeing progress and committing resources to ensure the country delivers on its hosting obligations.
The Role of Regional Cooperation
The 2024 CHAN, now scheduled for August 2025, marks a historic collaboration between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania as co-hosts. This regional approach underscores the importance of East African unity and cooperation in showcasing the region’s footballing potential.
Each nation has been tasked with upgrading and preparing their respective stadiums and facilities to meet CAF’s standards. The tournament represents an opportunity for the region to demonstrate its capability to host major international events, paving the way for future bids for prestigious tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) or even global competitions.
Economic and Social Impacts
The delay in hosting CHAN offers Kenya and its neighbors additional time to leverage the tournament for economic growth. The construction and renovation of stadiums, training facilities, and other infrastructure have created job opportunities, boosted local economies, and enhanced the region’s reputation as a tourism destination.
For Kenya, the hosting of CHAN presents a chance to cement its position as a regional football hub. The upgrades to Kasarani and Nyayo stadia, along with investments in ancillary facilities like hotels and hospitals, are expected to leave a lasting legacy for Kenyan sports and infrastructure development.
CAF’s Continued Support
CAF’s decision to postpone CHAN is not only a reflection of its commitment to ensuring a world-class tournament but also a testament to its confidence in the host nations. Motsepe praised the leadership of Kenya’s President William Ruto, Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni for their dedication to the tournament’s success.
“I would like to express my deep gratitude to President William Ruto of Kenya, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, and President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda for their leadership, commitment, and the good progress that has been made,” Motsepe stated.
CHAN Draw Set for January 15
In preparation for the rescheduled tournament, the draw for CHAN 2024 will take place on January 15, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya. The event will begin at 8 PM (EAT) and is expected to set the stage for the competition by determining group pairings.
While the exact dates for the tournament in August 2025 are yet to be announced, CAF confirmed that details will be released in due course. This ensures the participating teams and stakeholders have ample time to plan and prepare.
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to CHAN 2025 begins, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania have a unique opportunity to showcase their ability to host a successful international tournament. With the additional time afforded by CAF, the host nations can ensure their facilities meet world-class standards and deliver an unforgettable experience for players, fans, and officials.
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