Kenya to Host CHAN 2024 as Scheduled, Assures Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen

Kenya’s Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has dismissed speculation that the country’s hosting rights for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) had been revoked. Speaking during a local TV interview, Murkomen assured the public that the tournament, scheduled for February 1-28, 2024, will proceed as planned, with Kenya co-hosting alongside Uganda and Tanzania. The CS emphasized that despite challenges, preparations are on track, and efforts are underway to meet the December 31, 2024, deadline for readiness.

Kenya Reaffirms CHAN Hosting Commitment

During his address, CS Murkomen reassured stakeholders and fans that Kenya remains committed to hosting CHAN 2024. The tournament, featuring 19 teams from across Africa, is an opportunity for Kenya to demonstrate its capacity to host major international sporting events.

“Definitely, we are hosting CHAN from February 1-28, 2024. We are burning the midnight oil to make sure that our facilities are ready for hosting. It has not been easy, but I receive updates three days a week, and the contractors have assured us they will do everything possible to beat the deadline,” Murkomen said.

The assurance comes amid growing concerns about the state of Kenya’s sporting infrastructure, particularly the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo Stadium, which are undergoing significant renovations to meet the standards required by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Challenges in Facility Preparations

Murkomen admitted that Kenya faces substantial challenges in preparing for the tournament, including logistical issues and a lack of pre-existing CAF-approved stadiums. Unlike co-hosts Uganda and Tanzania, who each offered one stadium for the event, Kenya committed to providing two stadiums, a decision Murkomen described as a mistake.

“We offered to avail two stadiums in the region, but unfortunately, I think that was a mistake because even Uganda and Tanzania, who had CAF-qualified stadia, only offered one stadium each,” he explained.

Renovations at Kasarani Stadium began in May 2024 and involve an extensive overhaul, including:

• Roof Replacement: Modernizing the structure to meet international standards.
• Pitch Installation: Upgrading the playing surface to CAF specifications.
• Seating Overhaul: Replacing outdated seating with modern, comfortable options.

Murkomen highlighted that some materials required for renovations, such as seating and roofing, are still en route, with delays caused by logistical challenges.

“Part of the seats are in Mombasa, while some are in the high seas, including part of the roofing material,” he added.

Despite these setbacks, Murkomen expressed confidence that contractors will complete the work by the December 31 deadline.

Uganda and Tanzania Ready to Host

While Kenya races against time, co-hosts Uganda and Tanzania are already prepared for the tournament. Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, with a 60,000-seat capacity, is fully certified by CAF and has regularly hosted international matches. Similarly, Uganda completed the renovation of the 60,000-capacity Mandela National Stadium in 2023, upgrading the 27-year-old facility to meet FIFA and CAF standards.

These preparations have highlighted the disparity in readiness among the three co-hosts, leading to speculation about Kenya’s ability to deliver. However, Murkomen was quick to dispel these rumors, reiterating that Kenya is fully committed to its hosting obligations.

Formation of Multi-Agency Team

To fast-track preparations, Murkomen established the Pamoja CHAN 2024 and Pamoja AFCON 2027 Multi-Agency Team (CHAN-AFCON MAT) through a gazette notice. The team is tasked with coordinating efforts across government bodies, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure timely completion of stadium upgrades and overall readiness for the event.

“Now therefore, the Cabinet Secretary for Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, in exercise of the powers conferred on me by the Executive Order No. 2 of 2023 and the Sports Act, 2013, do establish the Pamoja CHAN 2024 and Pamoja AFCON 2027 multi-agency team (CHAN-AFCON MAT),” Murkomen announced.

Key Upgrades at Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums

The Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo Stadium are central to Kenya’s hosting plans for CHAN 2024. Both stadiums are undergoing significant renovations to align with CAF requirements.

At Kasarani Stadium, key upgrades include:

• Complete Roof Replacement: Installing a modern, durable structure.
• New Playing Surface: A high-quality pitch suitable for international matches.
• Modern Seating: Replacing outdated seats to improve spectator experience.

  

At Nyayo Stadium, similar efforts are underway, focusing on:

• Upgrading the pitch and drainage systems.
• Installing new seating and improved lighting for night games.
• Enhancing accessibility and safety measures for fans.

These renovations aim to ensure the facilities meet international standards, providing a seamless experience for players and spectators alike.

The Importance of CHAN 2024 for Kenya

Hosting CHAN 2024 presents a significant opportunity for Kenya to showcase its ability to organize and execute a major international tournament. The event exclusively features domestic-based players, offering local talent a platform to shine on a continental stage.

Beyond sports, the tournament is expected to boost tourism and economic activity, with thousands of fans traveling to Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania for the event. CHAN 2024 is also a precursor to Kenya’s co-hosting of AFCON 2027, making its success critical for the country’s reputation as a capable host of global sporting events.

Speculations Addressed

Reports suggesting that Kenya might lose its hosting rights have circulated due to the challenges faced in facility preparations. However, Murkomen categorically dismissed these claims, reiterating that Kenya remains committed to delivering a world-class tournament.

“I receive updates three times a week to monitor progress, and contractors are working tirelessly. We will do everything humanly possible to beat the deadline,” he said.

Murkomen’s reassurances reflect the government’s determination to overcome obstacles and ensure CHAN 2024 is a success.

Regional Collaboration for CHAN 2024

The co-hosting arrangement with Uganda and Tanzania highlights regional collaboration in East Africa, showcasing the collective ability of the three nations to deliver major events. While Tanzania and Uganda have set the benchmark with their advanced preparations, Kenya’s efforts to catch up underscore its commitment to fulfilling its role in the partnership.

The successful hosting of CHAN 2024 will mark a milestone for the region, setting the stage for future collaborations, including AFCON 2027.

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