Kenya has just 28 days to complete preparations for co-hosting the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) setting a December 31 deadline.
Despite significant efforts, the country still has critical gaps to address, particularly at the Moi International Sports Centre (MISC), Kasarani, and Nyayo National Stadium, which are earmarked as match venues.
CAF inspectors recently conducted a thorough assessment of Kenya’s facilities, including stadiums, training grounds, airports, and hotels.
Their report highlighted concerns over the readiness of Kenya’s main venues for the February 1–24 tournament. The inspectors expressed doubt over MISC Kasarani, which is currently only 71% complete.
At Kasarani, the canopy and sound system remain major concerns, with completion levels at 40% and 10%, respectively.
Other areas, such as the stadium lift, are at 60% completion, while work on the arena, changing rooms, and ramps stands at 80%. All these facilities must reach 100% by the deadline.
At Nyayo National Stadium, the installation of floodlights is underway, and the pitch’s moisture level needs urgent attention. Renovation delays have pushed its reopening from November to December, leaving contractors with a tight timeline to deliver.
Training venues are also under scrutiny. Police Sacco Stadium and MISC Annex require new changing rooms, while the pitch at Ulinzi Sports Complex needs upgrades to meet CAF standards.
While Uganda and Tanzania have already formed their Local Organizing Committees (LOCs), Kenya is yet to establish its own. Reports suggest the delay stems from adjustments to the committee’s structure.
CAF requires that each host country form an LOC, which will contribute members to an overarching steering committee for the tournament.
With Uganda and Tanzania already boasting CAF-approved stadiums, the pressure is on Kenya to rise to the challenge.
