More construction materials have arrived in Kasarani as phase two of renovations commence, marking significant progress in preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and Kenya’s Local Organising Committee (LOC) have provided an update on the ongoing renovations at Kasarani Stadium, confirming that the project remains on track for completion ahead of the tournament.
The competition, set to be hosted in Kenya in August, has driven major infrastructural improvements, with CAF officials recently inspecting the progress. The latest updates come at an exciting time for Kenyan football fans, as the Harambee Stars prepare to return to competitive action on home soil. Kenya is set to host Gabon in March 2024 for their fifth 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, marking their first competitive international match at home since 2021.
The Chairman of Kenya’s CHAN/AFCON Local Organising Committee expressed confidence in the progress at both Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium, highlighting the steady advancements made at both venues. Following a CAF inspection tour, he noted that efforts to prepare the facilities have remained consistent, ensuring that everything is in place for the tournament.
CAF’s Director of Tournaments and Events, who led a similar visit in January, praised Kenya for its commitment to the competition’s success. He acknowledged the improvements made since the last inspection and commended the country’s dedication to keeping renovations on schedule, even after the tournament was postponed from February to August.
During the recent visit, the CAF delegation toured key venues, including Nyayo and Kasarani Stadiums, as well as training facilities at Kasarani Annex, Ulinzi Sports Complex, and Police Sacco Stadium. Officials noted visible improvements at Kasarani, particularly with the arrival of crucial construction materials for the next phase of renovations.
The latest phase of work at Kasarani includes the installation of a stadium canopy, floodlights, and electronic scoreboards. At Nyayo Stadium, one of the four new floodlights has already been installed, with work progressing on the remaining three. Additionally, the playing surface, changing rooms, and media tribune at Nyayo are reportedly complete and will undergo testing during the Kenya vs. Gabon World Cup qualifier.
Earlier this year, it was reported that Kasarani’s ultra-modern changing rooms had already been completed, pending post-construction cleaning. These upgraded facilities feature over five changing rooms, each equipped with modern locker setups and individual charging ports for players. Gym mats have been added to the floors for comfort and safety, while western-style washrooms and bathrooms similar to VIP sections have been installed.
A designated doping control room has been placed near the changing rooms to ensure easy access and compliance with FIFA standards. The facility also includes a spacious waiting area with office chairs leading to a sample collection room with modern shelves. Athletes undergoing doping tests will have access to private washroom and shower facilities. A dedicated Persons With Disability (PWD) washroom, fitted with a holding bar, has also been included in the plans.
Further improvements within the changing rooms include the installation of a massage table, office chair, and desk, ensuring that players have access to proper recovery and preparation areas.
With the arrival of more construction materials and a clear roadmap in place, Kenya is steadily moving toward delivering world-class facilities for CHAN 2024. The next few months will be crucial in ensuring that all necessary upgrades are completed before the tournament’s kickoff in August.
CAF and Kenyan football authorities will continue to monitor the progress closely to ensure that all deadlines are met. The ongoing renovations are expected to leave a lasting legacy for Kenyan football, providing state-of-the-art facilities that will serve both local and international competitions in the future.
