Kenya is brimming with confidence as it prepares to co-host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) alongside Uganda and Tanzania. Scheduled to run from February 1 to 28, the tournament marks a significant milestone for the region, showcasing its capacity to host continental football events.
The newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya, has assured the public that preparations are on track. During his first official engagement at Talanta Plaza, Mvurya expressed optimism about the readiness of the three nations to deliver an exceptional championship. He emphasized that hosting CHAN is an opportunity to elevate the region’s profile in international sports.
To ensure the success of the tournament, Mvurya inspected key facilities that will host the matches. Accompanied by his predecessor, Kipchumba Murkomen, he toured Moi International Sports Centre (MISC), Kasarani, and Nyayo National Stadium, both of which are undergoing significant renovations. The duo also visited Police Sacco Stadium and Ulinzi Sports Complex, designated as training venues for the teams.
The draw for the 19-team tournament is set to take place on January 15 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). This event will finalize the match schedules and mark a major step forward in the preparations.
Mvurya highlighted the dual importance of hosting CHAN: not only to enhance Kenya’s reputation as a host nation but also to prepare the national team, Harambee Stars, for a commendable performance. He stressed the importance of showcasing Kenya’s footballing prowess, urging collaboration among stakeholders, including the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), to ensure the tournament’s success.
The FKF, under its new leadership, has been commended for its efforts to rejuvenate Kenyan football. Mvurya expressed confidence in the federation’s ability to steer the sport toward greater achievements, pledging government support to ensure football thrives in the country. This partnership is seen as pivotal in the lead-up to CHAN and beyond.
Outgoing Sports CS Murkomen acknowledged the extensive efforts that have gone into the preparations. He praised the hard work of teams within the sports and defense ministries, including the Kenya Defence Forces, for their role in supervising renovations. He also expressed gratitude to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for its trust in Kenya’s ability to host the event.
The preparations have been met with mixed reactions, with some expressing optimism about the progress and others voicing skepticism about the readiness of key venues. Despite these challenges, the commitment from various stakeholders has been unwavering, with the goal of delivering a seamless and memorable championship.
As the countdown to CHAN 2024 continues, the focus remains on the final phases of preparation. The tournament is expected to highlight East Africa as a prime destination for football, with Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania taking center stage. The event presents a unique opportunity for the region to demonstrate its organizational capabilities and passion for the sport, leaving a lasting legacy for football in East Africa.
