As Kenya steps up its preparations to co-host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August 2024, attention is now focused on the delayed handover of Nyayo Stadium. Despite significant strides in upgrading sports infrastructure, Nyayo Stadium remains under construction, particularly due to ongoing work on its perimeter wall a crucial security feature required by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The perimeter wall, which had been demolished and is being rebuilt, is central to CAF’s stringent safety protocols. In previous high-profile events, the old structure had been breached, raising concerns about its adequacy to handle crowds during major tournaments. The redesigned wall aims to address these past vulnerabilities, ensuring the venue meets international standards. Once the wall is completed, the stadium will be ready for handover to the CHAN Local Organising Committee (LOC).
The delay at Nyayo contrasts with recent progress at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, which was officially handed over to the LOC earlier in the week. The timely completion and handover of Kasarani has been seen as a positive sign that Kenya remains on track to meet its obligations as one of CHAN 2024’s co-hosts, alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
Significant government investment has gone into the modernization of both Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums, positioning them as key venues for the tournament. The upgrades not only target compliance with CAF’s technical requirements but also aim to improve the fan experience and safety measures.
Beyond the main stadia, an equally important effort has been directed at enhancing training facilities. Venues such as the Ulinzi Sports Complex, Kenya Police Sacco Stadium, Kasarani Annex, and Kirigiti Stadium have seen substantial improvements to align with CHAN standards. These venues will host training sessions and serve as backup facilities during the tournament.
The urgency surrounding these developments is understandable. CHAN 2024 represents a high-stakes opportunity for Kenya to showcase its organizational capacity on the continental stage and affirm its status as a footballing destination. It also offers a platform to elevate local talent and inspire broader development in sports infrastructure.
With less than two months before kickoff, all eyes will remain on Nyayo Stadium and its pending handover. Once finalized, it will complete the country’s core infrastructure readiness and allow the LOC to fully focus on tournament operations, logistics, and fan engagement strategies. The successful hosting of CHAN will mark a milestone for Kenya, not only in football but in its broader ambitions to host more international sporting events in the future.
