President William Ruto is set to welcome Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe and other football dignitaries tonight at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 draw.
The event, which will begin at 8:00 PM Kenyan time, is a historic moment for Kenya as it prepares to co-host the tournament for the first time.
Legends to Assist with the Draw
The draw will be assisted by iconic East African football legends: Hassan Wasswa from Uganda, Mrisho Ngasa from Tanzania, and Kenya’s own McDonald Mariga, who grew up in Nairobi. These legends will add regional pride and flair to the event, further elevating its significance for the region.
Tournament Overview
While the CHAN 2024 competition was recently postponed from February to August 2025, the draw is set to proceed as scheduled. A total of 19 teams, including defending champions Senegal and two-time champions Morocco, will discover their group-stage pairings for the tournament.
KICC: An Iconic Venue
The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), a landmark of architectural excellence in the heart of Nairobi, provides the perfect backdrop for this prestigious occasion. Opened in 1973, the 32-story building is known for its distinctive cylindrical design and panoramic views of the city. KICC is not only a key venue for conferences and exhibitions but also a symbol of Kenya’s modernity and cultural heritage.
Nairobi’s Role as Host City
As the commercial and innovation hub of East Africa, Nairobi will play a pivotal role in CHAN 2024. The city is home to top football clubs such as Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards, Tusker, and Mathare United, which are integral to Kenya’s vibrant football culture. Hosting the draw at KICC underscores Nairobi’s importance in African football and its readiness to host major continental events.