Kenya faces a tight deadline to finalise preparations for co-hosting the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) inspectors visited the country last week to evaluate its readiness, warning that substantial work remains to meet the December 31 deadline.
The tournament, reserved for locally-based players, will take place from 1 to 24 February 2024 and feature 19 teams.
Unlike Uganda and Tanzania, which each have a FIFA/CAF-approved stadium, Kenya has none currently meeting international standards.
Uganda hosts matches at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, while Tanzania uses the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam. Both countries have already formed Local Organisation Committees (LOCs) for the tournament, a step Kenya has yet to take.
CAF’s inspection team assessed Kenya’s proposed venues, including the 60,000-seat Moi International Sports Centre (MISC), Kasarani, and the 30,000-seat Nyayo National Stadium. Training grounds such as Police Sacco Stadium, Ulinzi Sports Complex, MISC Annex, and Kenya Academy of Sports were also reviewed.
Key issues at Kasarani include incomplete canopy, sound system, and lift installations. The stadium is reportedly 71 per cent complete, but must reach full functionality by the deadline.
Nyayo Stadium requires floodlights, while Police Sacco Stadium and MISC Kasarani Annex need new changing rooms to qualify as training venues. Upgrades are also required for the pitch at Ulinzi Sports Complex.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has assured that the Kasarani renovations will be completed on time, with contractors now working around the clock.
Meanwhile, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Nairobi’s hotels, inspected as part of the visit, were deemed satisfactory.
Kenya’s delay in establishing an LOC is reportedly due to adjustments being made to the committee. A joint steering committee with members from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania’s LOCs will oversee the tournament’s organisation.
