The Kenyan government insists Nyayo Stadium is ready to host CHAN despite CAF's decision to postpone the tournament to August 2025 amid concerns over Uganda and Kenya's readiness.
Kenya’s Sports Principal Secretary (PS) Peter Tum has declared Nyayo National Stadium fully prepared to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN), despite the tournament’s recent postponement by CAF to August 2025.
Tum made this assertion on Tuesday, January 14, during a press briefing held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).
Originally scheduled for February 2024, CHAN was to feature 19 teams competing across three East African nations: Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. While the tournament now faces a delayed timeline, Tum emphasized that Kenya’s preparations remain robust, with Nyayo Stadium ready for action.
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Flanked by CHAN Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Chairman Nicholas Musonye and CAF Head of Security Christian Emeruwa, Tum expressed pride in the progress made at Nyayo Stadium. The facility, he confirmed, is operational, with only the canopy installation left to be completed after the tournament.
“Nyayo is complete and ready for CHAN; only the canopy remains, and that will be done post-tournament,” Tum assured.
He also provided an update on Kasarani Stadium, noting that while only 25% of its renovation is finished, the project is expected to be ready ahead of Kenya’s bid to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“Kasarani is being prepared for AFCON. The facility is 25% done, but after CHAN, it will be completed to meet AFCON standards,” Tum explained.
Tum underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring Kenya fields a competitive team for CHAN. He called on the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to assemble a squad capable of representing the nation effectively, highlighting the resources provided by the government to support this goal.
“As a government, we are providing resources to ensure Kenya remains competitive in the tournament,” he said.
The PS also urged Kenyans to embrace the tournament as a milestone for the nation’s football development.
Tum confirmed that all arrangements for CHAN’s draw, scheduled for Wednesday, January 15, at the KICC, are in place. The event will determine group pairings for the tournament and is set to begin at 8:00 PM local time.
CAF’s Head of Security, Christian Emeruwa, praised Kenya’s preparations, particularly in the area of security.
“We have held extensive meetings with host countries and are confident in Kenya’s readiness, especially regarding security measures,” Emeruwa stated.
Nicholas Musonye, the LOC Chairman, echoed these sentiments, urging Kenyans to rally behind the event and celebrate it as a national achievement.
“We are fully prepared to handle CHAN professionally. Tomorrow’s draw marks the beginning of this prestigious tournament—let’s make it a point of pride for Kenya,” Musonye concluded.
Despite the postponement, Kenya’s efforts to prepare for CHAN underline its determination to elevate its football infrastructure and reputation on the continent. With Nyayo Stadium ready and other venues progressing, the country is set to play a central role in hosting the rescheduled tournament in 2025.