With just 18 days to go before the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) begins, Uganda has announced significantly lower ticket prices compared to fellow co-hosts Kenya, in a move aimed at encouraging fan attendance.
Uganda, alongside neighbours Kenya and Tanzania, is co-hosting the biennial tournament set to run from Saturday, August 2 to Saturday, August 30. The tournament features national teams composed exclusively of players plying their trade in their respective domestic leagues.
On Monday, Uganda’s Local Organising Committee (LOC) released the official ticketing structure for fans attending matches at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala.
According to the new pricing, regular tickets will cost just USD1 (about Ksh129 or UGX3,586), VIP tickets will go for USD2 (Ksh258 or UGX7,052), while VVIP access will be available for USD3 (Ksh387 or UGX10,578).
LOC chairman Dennis Mugimba said the pricing was guided by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which advised host countries to keep ticket prices affordable to encourage greater local participation.
“CAF has advised that we make ticket prices affordable for everyone,” Mugimba told Kawowo Sports. “We were advised to consider a USD1, USD2, and USD3 model for regular, VIP, and VVIP tickets. Each host country will adapt within those ranges.”
Mugimba added that Uganda’s focus is not on profits but on giving citizens an opportunity to experience the championship firsthand.
“The Government of Uganda didn’t bring CHAN to make profits. We want every Ugandan to feel part of this moment. CHAN 2024 is not just about football — it’s about showcasing who we are as a nation,” he noted.
In contrast, Kenya has priced regular tickets at Ksh200, while VIP and VVIP passes will retail at Ksh500 and Ksh1,000 respectively. The higher rates have already sparked debate among fans, especially in light of Uganda’s approach.
Kenya’s opening match will see Harambee Stars face DR Congo on Sunday, August 3 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, starting at 3:00 PM.
The 2024 CHAN tournament is expected to attract thousands of fans across the three co-hosting nations and serve as a major platform for showcasing homegrown football talent on the continental stage.
