The progress of renovations at Kasarani Stadium is advancing rapidly as Kenya prepares for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which will be co-hosted by Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya. With the tournament set to begin on February 1, 2025, the deadline for submission to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is January 20, 2025, making the final stages of preparation crucial. While Uganda and Tanzania have already received approval for their stadiums, Kenya has been focused on upgrading Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums to meet CAF’s standards. Additionally, the construction of the Talanta City complex is also underway to further enhance the tournament’s infrastructure.
Kasarani Stadium, one of the primary venues for the tournament, is undergoing significant upgrades. A recent video shared online offers a glimpse into the ongoing work, showcasing several notable developments. Among the most prominent updates is the progress on the playing surface. The pitch, which is a critical aspect of any football stadium, is nearing completion. A lush green grass cover is nearly in place, with only a few patches left to be filled. Contractors are confident that the surface will be fully ready well before the tournament begins, ensuring optimal conditions for the players.
Another key element of the renovation is the construction of canopy structures. The metal framework for the canopy has already been erected across the stadium, with the VIP section completed. The canopy is expected to provide much-needed shade for spectators, enhancing their comfort and experience. Once completed, it will also contribute to the overall aesthetic of the stadium, making it more modern and appealing.
In addition to the canopy, new floodlights are being installed on the roofing structures of the stadium. These floodlights are designed to meet international standards, ensuring excellent visibility during evening matches. This upgrade is particularly important for broadcast purposes, as the tournament will be televised to a global audience. The new lighting system will improve the overall quality of the viewing experience for fans both in the stadium and at home.
The seating arrangements at Kasarani Stadium are also being upgraded to ensure comfort for the spectators. The installation of biluminous gray seats with backrests is nearly complete. These seats are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them durable and long-lasting. This upgrade will provide fans with a more comfortable and enjoyable experience during the matches, which is essential for a major international tournament like CHAN.
The washroom facilities at Kasarani have also been renovated extensively. Public restrooms have been updated to provide better amenities for spectators. This marks a significant improvement in the overall infrastructure of the stadium, ensuring that attendees have access to clean and modern facilities during the tournament.
Although the video focused primarily on the exterior and general upgrades, other critical areas of the stadium are also being prepared. The dressing rooms, for instance, are being finalized to meet CAF’s standards. Two of the four dressing rooms are already complete, and the remaining two are expected to be finished by the CAF submission deadline. These world-class facilities will ensure that teams have the best possible environment to prepare for their matches.
In addition to Kasarani Stadium, Nyayo National Stadium has received approval from CAF following a recent inspection. The stadium, along with additional training grounds such as Kirigiti Stadium, Police Sacco Stadium, and Ulinzi Sports Complex, will play a key role in hosting the tournament. These venues have all been greenlit for the competition, further bolstering Kenya’s readiness to host the event.
As the deadline for CAF’s submission approaches, Kenya is working diligently to ensure that all facilities are up to standard. With the upgrades at Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums, along with the additional training grounds, the country is positioning itself to host a successful and world-class tournament. The improvements to the infrastructure reflect Kenya’s commitment to providing the best possible experience for both players and spectators during the 2024 CHAN.
