President William Ruto has confirmed that Kenya, together with Uganda and Tanzania, will be prepared to co-host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking during the CAF Executive Committee Meeting at Villa Rosa Kempinski in Nairobi, Ruto emphasised the significance of these football tournaments for East Africa and assured CAF President Patrice Motsepe of the region’s commitment to hosting these events successfully.
“I have really disturbed my brother here (Motsepe), I think I am almost becoming a pest. I keep him on the phone for many minutes because hosting CHAN and AFCON is a major milestone for us as EA.
“I have had a conversation with my two colleagues, Yoweri Museveni (President of Uganda) and Samia Suluhu (President of Tanzania) and we are all aligned in making sure that both events, we give you the best possible support to make sure that it happens,” Ruto disclosed.
The 2024 CHAN, which will feature only players from domestic leagues, has been rescheduled to February 1 to February 28 next year from its original September date.
Kenya is working to have either Nyayo National Stadium or Moi International Sports Centre (MISC) Kasarani in Nairobi ready for the tournaments.
Cabinet Secretary for Sports Kipchumba Murkomen assured that MISC will be operational by November, although Nyayo National Stadium will soon be closed for renovations.
Ruto expressed gratitude to CAF for awarding the hosting rights and assured that the East African countries will provide all necessary support.
The President noted that the tournaments will boost the region’s economy and lead to infrastructure improvements, including the construction of Talanta Sports City in Kenya, which will have a capacity of 60,000 and is expected to be completed by December 2025.
“You (CAF) have helped us create jobs, and many other things and that is why this thing is immensely important to us, so Patrice and your team, let me give you my word that if there are any issues, these men know how to find me,” he said.
CAF President Motsepe praised Kenya’s preparations, stating that the ongoing work reflects the country’s commitment to hosting major football events successfully.