Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania expressed relief at CAF’s decision to postpone the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) to August 2025.
The three countries, hosts of the continental competition’s 20th edition, welcomed the decision as it allows for more time to prepare for the highly anticipated tournament.
The initial plan to hold CHAN from February 1 to 28 was considered too soon for adequate preparations, but the postponement has provided a much-needed breathing space for the host nations to ensure that the tournament will be a success.
Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) praised the progress made by the three nations.
“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 successful TotalEnergies African Nations Championship in August 2025,” he stated.
CAF’s technical team has conducted regular inspections, noting significant advancements in stadiums, training grounds, hotels, and hospitals. However, additional time is required to complete the necessary upgrades.
Motsepe commended the leadership of Kenyan President William Ruto, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni for their dedication to the project.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to President William Ruto of Kenya, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, and President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda for their leadership and the good progress made in the construction and upgrading of football infrastructure. I am amazed by the ongoing construction and renovation of stadiums, training grounds, and other facilities in these countries,” he said.
In Tanzania, preparations are reportedly 95% complete. Key facilities, such as the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam and the New Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, have undergone extensive renovations, alongside the construction of new training grounds. Tanzanian CHAN Internal Preparation Committee Chairman, Leodegar Tenga, highlighted the positive feedback received from CAF inspectors.
The CHAN tournament, held biennially, features domestic league players and serves as a platform for showcasing local talent while boosting regional infrastructure and economic activity.
CAF has pledged continued technical support to ensure the host nations meet expectations. The rescheduled timeline provides an opportunity to deliver a memorable event, eagerly awaited by football enthusiasts across Africa.
