Kenya is set to host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) alongside Uganda and Tanzania, as preparations intensify for the tournament’s official draw scheduled for Wednesday, January 15.
The announcement was made by the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya, during his first press briefing ahead of the tournament.
He was joined by Principal Secretary Peter Tum, Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed, and CHAN Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Chair Nicholas Musonye.
“I want to make an announcement to all Kenyans that the country is ready and will host CHAN,” Mvurya declared at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), the venue for the highly anticipated draw.
Mvurya expressed confidence in Kenya’s readiness to host the 19-team tournament after months of preparations. “The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has a lot of confidence in us, and that is why we have the honor of hosting the draw in a few days,” he said.
The CS added that the seeding and pooling of the participating teams would be finalized during the draw, and more details regarding the venues would also be provided. “As of now, we can confirm that Nyayo Stadium and Kasarani Stadium will be ready to host the games,” Mvurya assured.
Earlier in the day, the CS, PS, and LOC members inspected the two match venues. While acknowledging that the facilities are not yet fully ready, Mvurya provided updates on the pending work.
“At Nyayo, we still need to get the floodlights installed,” he said. “Similarly, Kasarani requires the installation of 57 lights.”
The renovations are projected to be completed by Friday, January 17, ensuring the venues meet international standards for the tournament.
With Kenya gearing up to co-host CHAN, the announcement marks a significant milestone for the country, highlighting its growing stature as a hub for major sporting events in Africa.
