Kenya’s Sports Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, has expressed confidence in the country’s ability to co-host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), despite delays in stadium preparations. Speaking during a live interview on interview on NTV Kenya, Murkomen tackled concerns about Kenya’s readiness, emphasizing the government’s resolve and dismissing negative speculations.
“It is strange and unfortunate that a foreigner sitting somewhere in CAF is very positive about Kenya’s capacity and ability to achieve this tournament, but we as Kenyans are doing everything possible to sponsor propaganda,” he remarked. “Let’s be positive. This is our country.”
Murkomen highlighted the aging state of Kenya’s sports infrastructure, noting that the Moi International Sports Centre and Nyayo National Stadium—key venues for CHAN—were built nearly 40 years ago. The urgency to upgrade these facilities has sparked a broader conversation about improving Kenya’s sporting landscape.
“The pressure of hosting CHAN and eventually AFCON is a wake-up call for us to step up. President Ruto’s vision for Talanta Sports Center will likely make it the best stadium in Africa,” he said.
Murkomen assured that while the stadiums may not be fully renovated by February, they will meet the required standards for the tournament. “We are not expecting the entire stadium to be finished, but there is a required standard that must be met,” he added.
The Sports CS outlined measures being taken to meet deadlines, including frequent updates and close monitoring of contractors’ progress. “I receive updates every three days, and contractors have assured us they will meet the deadline,” he said. “The contractor committed to securing the remaining materials.”
He reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to hosting the tournament alongside Tanzania and Uganda from February 1–28, 2025, emphasizing the tournament’s importance in boosting regional sports.
“We are definitely hosting CHAN from 1st to 28th February 2025. We’re working tirelessly to ensure our facilities are ready. It hasn’t been easy, but we are doing our best,” Murkomen concluded.
