As East Africa prepares to host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), significant investments have gone into upgrading the five stadiums chosen for the month-long tournament. These facilities spread across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zanzibar have undergone extensive renovations amounting to billions in local currency to meet CAF’s standards for international competitions.
In Kenya, the iconic Kasarani Stadium, originally constructed in 1987, has seen the most substantial transformation. Closed in late 2023 and reopened in June 2025, it underwent a Ksh2.4 billion upgrade that included modern seating, enhanced security features, and improved player facilities. Its capacity has been reduced from 60,000 to 48,000 for better spectator experience and safety. The stadium is set to host Group A matches and the tournament’s final.
Kenya’s second-largest venue, the Nyayo National Stadium, built in 1983, was also overhauled. Previously falling short of international standards, it has now been brought up to par at a cost of Ksh1.2 billion. It will share Group A fixtures, featuring Angola, DR Congo, Morocco, and Zambia.
In Tanzania, the 60,000-seat Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, completed in 2007, received Tsh31 billion (Ksh1.58 billion) worth of improvements. Known for hosting major league matches, including the Kariokoo derby, it was temporarily closed in March 2025 and reopened in June. The stadium will host Group B matches and the opening ceremony.
Uganda’s Mandela National Stadium, commonly referred to as Namboole, has a long history dating back to 1993. Initially constructed at a cost of $34 million and refurbished in 2010-2011, the stadium recently received another facelift with Ush97 billion (Ksh3.35 billion) in government funding. The country’s military oversaw the upgrades to ensure quality. It will host Group C matches and the third-place playoff.
Zanzibar’s Amaan Stadium, built in 1970, is the oldest among the CHAN venues and holds historical significance as China’s first stadium project in Africa. The 15,000-seater was renovated for Tsh52 billion (Ksh2.64 billion) between August and December 2023. Despite initial exclusion from the tournament, Zanzibar will now host Group D games and one quarter-final.
These massive investments underscore the region’s commitment to delivering a world-class football experience during CHAN 2024.
