Auka Gecheo, the Executive Director of CECAFA, has shared his insights on why the decision to postpone the African Nations Championship (CHAN) is a blessing in disguise for the three host nations: Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Originally scheduled for February, the tournament has been rescheduled to August, giving the host countries an additional six months to ensure everything is in place for a successful event.
Gecheo emphasized that this delay provides the necessary time for the countries to address any outstanding issues and fine-tune preparations. He believes that this move is crucial for ensuring that every aspect of the tournament meets international standards. While he acknowledged the progress made so far, he stressed that the postponement allows for a more thorough review to ensure that everything is perfect, particularly because CHAN is a major tournament with global attention.
He also pointed out that CHAN is not just any regional competition but one that attracts viewers from around the world. As such, every detail, from the infrastructure to the logistics, must be meticulously planned and executed. Gecheo expressed his confidence that this extended preparation period will help the host nations avoid any mishaps and deliver a world-class event.
Gecheo further explained that the CHAN tournament serves as a crucial stepping stone for the much larger African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027, which will also be hosted in East Africa. The lessons learned and the improvements made during CHAN will directly contribute to the success of AFCON 2027. Gecheo noted that the three countries have been working tirelessly for years, and in recent weeks, their efforts have intensified to ensure that the tournament is not only well-organized but also showcases the region’s potential.
The increased prize money for this year’s CHAN, announced by CAF, further underscores the significance of the competition. With the financial rewards now much higher, the tournament is expected to attract top-level players and teams, making it even more important for the host nations to get everything right. Gecheo believes that this investment in the tournament’s success will pay off, not only in terms of sporting achievement but also in showcasing East Africa’s capability to host major international events.
This year’s CHAN will set the tone for AFCON 2027, and Gecheo believes that by getting everything right now, the host nations will be well-positioned to handle the much larger event in the future. The collaboration between the federations, governments, and local organizing committees is seen as a key factor in ensuring that the tournament is a success. Gecheo also emphasized the importance of delivering a high-quality experience for both players and fans, which will ultimately enhance the region’s reputation on the continental and global stages.
The delay, while initially disappointing for many, is seen as an opportunity to ensure that every aspect of the tournament is up to par. Gecheo’s optimistic outlook reflects a broader commitment from the host countries to put on a memorable and professional show that will not only meet but exceed expectations. This commitment is expected to leave a lasting legacy for East Africa’s ability to host major sporting events, paving the way for future successes on the international stage.
