Outgoing Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen has assured both Kenyans and CAF of the government’s commitment to meeting the deadline. This assurance comes despite lingering concerns over incomplete work at both facilities, which has sparked skepticism among stakeholders.
Government’s Assurance and Commitment
Speaking in a recent interview, Murkomen emphasized the government’s determination to host the tournament and outlined a phased approach to ensure readiness.
“I want to assure CAF, and I want to assure Kenyans, that we will be ready to host CHAN. We are putting everything in place, burning the midnight oil, and mobilizing all resources to ensure this happens,” Murkomen said.
The plan focuses on completing critical aspects of the stadiums, such as the playing surfaces, dressing rooms, and seating arrangements, by the deadline. Non-essential features, such as modern sound systems, will be deferred to a later date.
“What we are going to do, especially with Kasarani, is complete the crucial aspects like the playing surface, dressing room, and stands. There are recommendations from CAF that we may not finish now but will address later,” Murkomen added.
Overcoming Challenges Amid Delays
One of the significant delays in preparations has been the late constitution and gazettement of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC). Murkomen cited disruptions caused by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) elections as a key factor in the delay, explaining that the LOC is vital for coordinating tournament logistics and aligning preparations with CAF’s standards.
“The LOC is extremely important because we need to move with speed to ensure we are up and running. Although the FKF elections caused delays, we have now gazetted the LOC to support the ongoing work,” Murkomen stated.
This delay echoes past missteps, such as the 2017 debacle when Kenya lost hosting rights for CHAN due to inadequate stadia. Determined to avoid a repeat of this embarrassment, the government has pledged to work day and night to ensure the country delivers this time around.
Progress at Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums
Recent updates from Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums have provided cautious optimism. While there is still much work to be done, contractors are working around the clock to meet the looming deadline.
- Kasarani Stadium: The playing surface, dressing rooms, and stands are nearing completion. Contractors have prioritized these elements, ensuring they meet the basic requirements set by CAF.
- Nyayo Stadium: Similar progress is being made at Nyayo, with final touches on the pitch and spectator areas underway. While additional upgrades will be required post-CHAN, the stadium is expected to meet the minimum standards for hosting.
Murkomen has also reassured stakeholders that financial constraints will not hinder progress. The government has allocated resources through the Sports Fund Board and a steering committee that includes representatives from multiple arms of government.
“This is a high-priority project, and any funds required to complete the work will be made available. We have aligned all stakeholders to treat this as a top priority,” he said.
Kenya’s Broader Sports Aspirations
The successful hosting of CHAN 2024 is critical for Kenya’s ambitions to establish itself as a hub for international sports events. The tournament also serves as a precursor to Kenya’s co-hosting of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Uganda and Tanzania.
Beyond CHAN, the government is investing in infrastructure to ensure that facilities such as the Talanta Sports City are ready for future tournaments. This project, which aims to provide world-class sports infrastructure, reflects Kenya’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting economic growth through sports.
High Stakes and Regional Competition
With Uganda and Tanzania already prepared, Kenya faces added pressure to deliver. The stakes are particularly high given the regional competition and the international scrutiny associated with hosting CAF tournaments. Successfully hosting CHAN 2024 would not only enhance Kenya’s reputation but also position the country as a reliable host for future continental and global events.
Phased Approach to Meeting CAF Requirements
To address the tight timeline, the government has adopted a phased approach. This involves prioritizing essential features such as the playing field and dressing rooms while outsourcing certain tasks and deferring non-critical elements.
Murkomen explained, “We’ve agreed with contractors to focus on critical aspects of the stadia. The work already being done will ensure that we meet the basic requirements to host CHAN. Other elements like modern sound systems can be added later.”
Collaboration Across Stakeholders
The government’s strategy involves collaboration among various stakeholders, including contractors, the Sports Fund Board, and the LOC. This coordinated effort is intended to streamline the execution of the project and ensure that all CAF requirements are met.
Murkomen praised the collaborative efforts, stating, “We’ve held meetings with contractors, and everyone is committed to giving this project the push it needs to succeed. This is a collective effort to ensure Kenya is ready to host CHAN.” 
Looking Ahead to CHAN and Beyond
As Kenya races against the clock to meet CAF’s December 31 deadline, the government remains confident in its ability to deliver at least one ready stadium. The successful hosting of CHAN would mark a significant milestone in Kenya’s sports journey and pave the way for even greater achievements, including the 2027 AFCON.
With determined leadership, resource mobilization, and a clear focus on priorities, Kenya is poised to demonstrate its readiness to host international tournaments and cement its position as a powerhouse in African sports.
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