The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved only one training facility in Kenya as preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) continue to face challenges. With the tournament scheduled to begin on August 2 across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, concerns are mounting over Kenya’s readiness, particularly regarding key stadiums and training grounds.
CAF inspectors conducted a detailed assessment of the proposed venues and training facilities in Kenya during their recent visit. The results, however, were far from encouraging. Both Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums planned as the main venues for the tournament matches were found lacking in meeting the required standards. The playing surfaces at these two stadiums were deemed substandard, raising serious doubts about their suitability to host high-profile international fixtures.
In addition to the main stadiums, several training venues also failed to impress the CAF inspection team. Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County, one of the designated training grounds, was found to be far from completion. Other training venues, including Police Sacco grounds and the Kasarani Annex, also remain unfinished and are yet to be cleared for use.
Among the facilities assessed, only the Ulinzi Complex received a clean bill of health. This facility has recently undergone a significant upgrade costing over Ksh490 million, enabling it to meet the stringent requirements set by CAF. The upgraded Ulinzi Complex is now ready to host training sessions and will also serve as the venue for the upcoming Kip Keino Classic athletics event. This positive development, however, is overshadowed by the overall slow progress and unfinished state of other critical venues.
The inspection team, led by CAF’s third vice president Pierre Alain Mounguengui, expressed disappointment with the pace of work. With just two months remaining before the tournament kicks off, there is growing unease about whether Kenya can complete the necessary upgrades in time. The delay and lack of readiness have put Kenya under intense scrutiny from CAF, as the federation expects all host nations to present fully compliant venues well ahead of the tournament.
Despite the concerns raised during the inspections, the Kenyan government has dismissed any doubts about the country’s ability to deliver. In a meeting held shortly after the CAF visit, government officials, including the Sports Cabinet Secretary, reassured the public and stakeholders of Kenya’s preparedness. They highlighted that CAF’s inspection process involves periodic checks, which will continue up to the final days before the event. According to the Sports Cabinet Secretary, these inspections are standard procedure, and Kenya remains fully committed to meeting all requirements and deadlines.
The government’s confidence, however, faces a significant test in the coming weeks. There is increasing pressure to fast-track the completion of renovations and upgrades, particularly at Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums, to ensure they are ready to host the matches as scheduled. These stadiums are vital for the tournament, not only because of their capacity but also their historical significance in Kenyan football.
The CHAN 2024 tournament is a major event for the continent, showcasing the talents of players who compete in their domestic leagues. For Kenya, hosting the event represents an opportunity to boost the local sports industry, enhance the country’s profile in African football, and stimulate economic activity through tourism and related sectors.
However, the current state of venue readiness poses a risk to these ambitions. The government and all involved parties must accelerate their efforts to meet CAF’s standards and timelines. Failure to do so could jeopardize Kenya’s reputation as a capable host and impact the smooth running of the tournament.
As the countdown to CHAN 2024 continues, all eyes will remain on the progress made in the next two months. The hope is that Kenya can overcome the setbacks, deliver fully prepared venues, and ensure a successful championship that reflects well on the country and the broader region.
