CHAN 2024:
A high-powered CAF delegation has publicly commenced its final inspection trip in Kenya marking a pivotal moment in the country’s bid to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024). The visit taking place across key venues in Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa and Eldoret—is set to evaluate the readiness of Kenya’s sports infrastructure, transport and hospitality systems ahead of the continental tournament.
CAF inspection Kenya | CHAN 2024 Kenya | Kenya football infrastructure
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Why This CAF Tour Matters: Kenya on the Brink of History
CHAN 2024, prepared by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is a prestigious biennial competition exclusively for players active in their domestic leagues. Kenya’s inclusion as a potential host or co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda puts the country in the microscope.
The CAF team’s inspection contains:
- Stadium assessments: Kasarani, Nyayo, and regional venues in Kisumu, Mombasa and Eldoret
- Training ground visits: Evaluation of FIFA-standard facilities
- Accommodation & transport audits: Hotel capacity, airport access and intercity mobility
- Stakeholder meetings: Through FKF, Ministry of Sports and local county governments
Key Venues In Scrutiny During the CAF CHAN 2024 Inspection
Nairobi: The Nerve Center of CHAN 2024 Kenya Readiness
- Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani: Main stadium targeted for CHAN 2024 opening match
- Nyayo National Stadium: Undergoing renovations; vital for group-stage fixtures
- Accommodation hubs: Nairobi’s 3-5 star hotels assessed for athlete housing
Regional Cities in Spotlight
- Mombasa: Ongoing upgrades at the Mombasa Sports Complex
- Kisumu: CAF reviewed ongoing refurbishments at Moi Stadium
- Eldoret: Assessment of Kipchoge Keino Stadium and surrounding training fields
CAF Delegation Impressed by Progress however Challenges Remain
Early signals from CAF indicate cautious optimism. However Kenya has made substantial progress key concerns were flagged:
- Transport logistics among match venues
- Stadium drainage systems and lighting
- Medical services and doping control stations
CAF has emphasized that final hosting rights hinge on meeting all set benchmarks before the official confirmation deadline later this month.
“We are here to see the last-mile implementation. Kenya is close however not quite there,” noted a CAF delegate in Nairobi.
What’s at Stake for Kenya?
Hosting CHAN 2024 could mark a historic revival for Kenya’s football ambitions after previously losing hosting rights in 2018 due to infrastructural postponements. A successful bid would:
- Elevate Kenya’s football profile in Africa
- Inspire investments in grassroots sports development
What’s Next?
The inspection tour is likely to conclude by mid-July 2025 after which CAF will issue its final CHAN 2024 presenting confirmation. All eyes are on Kenya to deliver in this final lap.