Kenya’s plans to host the opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) are in jeopardy, raising concerns among local football fans who were hoping for a historic start to the tournament on home soil. Originally set to begin in February 2025, the competition has now been rescheduled to run from August 2 to August 30, 2025. This shift in dates, announced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), was made to allow the co-hosting countries Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania more time to complete their preparations for the event. CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe confirmed the new timeline after a meeting of the CAF executive committee in Rabat, Morocco, on January 29, 2025.
The rescheduling gives the host nations more time to ensure that their stadiums, training facilities, and logistical arrangements meet the high standards expected for such a prestigious tournament. However, while the extra time may benefit all parties involved, it has also led to uncertainty over which country will host the opening match of the competition. Kenya, being drawn into Group A, has traditionally been seen as the likely venue for the tournament’s first game. However, Dr. Motsepe’s recent comments have raised the possibility that Tanzania, rather than Kenya, might now host the curtain-raiser.
During a brief visit to Dar es Salaam in late January, Dr. Motsepe gave a cryptic statement that hinted at a possible change in plans. “The next time I will see you will be here at the opening match for the 2024 CHAN tournament,” he said, implying that Tanzania could host the event’s opening game. This remark has sparked speculation that the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest football venue, might be chosen over Kenya’s stadiums, such as Kasarani or Nyayo, for the highly anticipated first match. If these rumors prove true, it would be a significant blow to Kenyan football fans who were eager to witness the tournament’s opening game on their home turf.
While the Kenyan Local Organizing Committee (LOC), led by Nicholas Musonye and CEO Myke Rabar, has been actively involved in preparations for CHAN 2024, their recent visit to Dar es Salaam seemed to indicate that Tanzania is making significant strides in its readiness for the tournament. The two officials expressed satisfaction with Tanzania’s competition venues and training grounds, including the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. They noted that had the tournament still been scheduled for February, Tanzania would have been fully prepared. The additional time before the competition’s rescheduled start is now allowing for final touches and promotional efforts.
Despite the looming uncertainty over which country will host the opening match, the LOC emphasized the positive coordination between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in preparing for the tournament. The three nations have been working together to ensure the success of the 2024 CHAN, which will be a landmark event for East African football.
Meanwhile, CAF’s partnership with TotalEnergies, the French energy giant and title sponsor of the competition since 2016, continues to play a crucial role in the preparation process. A four-year sponsorship extension between the two entities was announced during a recent signing ceremony in Dar es Salaam. CAF President Dr. Motsepe expressed his gratitude for the continued support, praising TotalEnergies for its contributions to the development of African football. TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanné also highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting African football and its role in growing the sport across the continent.
While the opening match remains uncertain, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are all gearing up for what promises to be a historic tournament. As the competition draws closer, it is clear that the 2024 CHAN will be a momentous occasion for East African football, no matter where the opening match takes place. CAF has yet to make an official announcement on the matter, and Kenyan fans can still hope for the tournament’s first game to be held on their home soil. Regardless of the venue for the opening match, CHAN 2024 is set to be a showcase of the best football talent from across the continent, highlighting the growing importance of African football on the world stage.
