The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is optimistic about the rescheduling of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which has been moved from February to August. Kenya, co-hosting the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania, sees this as an opportunity to elevate the region’s football profile.
The FKF president expressed excitement about the event, emphasizing its significance for East Africa. He noted that the additional time allows for better preparation, ensuring the region can deliver an exceptional football festival. For Kenya, this is a historic moment, as it marks the first time the country will host a tournament of this scale. The event offers an opportunity to showcase East Africa’s capability to organize a world-class football extravaganza.
In preparation for CHAN, Kenya plans to utilize the Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums. While Nyayo Stadium has already been approved by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and is undergoing final adjustments, Kasarani Stadium remains under renovation. The federation is keen to ensure that all preparations are completed on time, with the local organizing committee working diligently to meet the required standards.
The additional preparation time is not just about infrastructure. FKF aims to use this period to strengthen the national team, Harambee Stars. The team, currently led by interim coach Francis Kimanzi, recently participated in the Mapinduzi Cup. Although they did not advance to the final, their performance, which included a 1-1 draw with Burkina Faso, a 2-0 win against Tanzania, and a narrow 1-0 loss to Zanzibar, provided valuable experience.
The FKF president highlighted the importance of finalizing the technical bench and appointing a permanent head coach ahead of CHAN. The federation also plans to align youth teams with the national football calendar, ensuring a cohesive development strategy for the future. The goal is not merely to participate in CHAN but to make a strong impression and demonstrate the potential of Kenyan football on a continental stage.
Kenya’s ambitions extend beyond CHAN. The FKF has its sights set on the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), another joint hosting venture with Uganda and Tanzania. The CHAN tournament serves as a precursor to this larger goal, allowing the region to refine its hosting capabilities and gain valuable experience in organizing international events.
The CHAN draw placed Kenya in a challenging group alongside Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Angola, and Zambia. Dubbed the “Group of Death,” the draw presents a tough test for Harambee Stars. However, the federation remains determined to prepare the team thoroughly, leaving no detail overlooked.
The FKF president expressed confidence in the preparations, stating that the postponement has provided an invaluable opportunity to address any gaps. The focus is on building a competitive team, improving infrastructure, and ensuring all logistical aspects are handled efficiently. The federation is committed to making CHAN 2024 a success, not just for Kenya but for the entire East African region.
The CHAN tournament is expected to be a showcase of East Africa’s growing potential as a hub for world-class football events. With the additional time for preparation, Kenya is poised to deliver a memorable event that highlights the region’s footballing talent and organizational capabilities. The federation’s efforts to strengthen the national team, complete stadium renovations, and align youth development with long-term goals underscore its commitment to elevating Kenyan football.
