Fans were eagerly anticipating for the upcoming CHAN 2024 tournament which was originally supposed to take place in February, but CAF have decided to postpone it.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced the postponement of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN), initially scheduled for February 2024 in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, to August 2025.
This decision, while disappointing for some, comes after thorough consultations with CAF’s Technical and Infrastructure experts, who recommended additional time to ensure the tournament meets the required standards.
Infrastructure progress and challenges
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe commended the presidents of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda for their leadership and commitment to upgrading and constructing the necessary infrastructure.
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Significant progress has been made, including renovations of stadiums, training grounds, hotels, hospitals, and transport networks, however, all three countries still have some teething problems to adress as explained below:
Kenya
Nyayo and Kasarani Stadiums: Nyayo Stadium has been approved for use despite dressing rooms still undergoing final touches and floodlight installations. Kasarani Stadium remains under renovation and is unlikely to meet the initial January 2024 deadline.
Training Grounds: Renovations at Ulinzi Sports Complex and Police Sacco Stadium have met CAF’s requirements.
Transport Networks: Kenya boasts a reliable road system, with the expressway offering smooth access from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to major venues. Hotels in Nairobi are also ready to host teams and officials.
Tanzania
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Government affirms Nyayo Stadium’s readiness to host CHAN 2024 amid postponement
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.
Tanzania, which looks like the country most ready to host the tournament, has made the following changes:
Benjamin Mkapa Stadium: Upgrades to press facilities and other amenities have been completed.
Training Grounds: Key facilities are on track, ensuring Tanzania’s readiness for hosting duties.
Uganda
Mandela National Stadium (Namboole): Renovations include hybrid turf installation, enhanced floodlights, and additional emergency exits. However, delays persist with the playing area and access roads.
Other Facilities: Kadiba Training Facility, Wankulukuku, and Kampala International School Uganda (KISU) are all undergoing significant upgrades. While progress has been noted, completion timelines remain tight.
Road Networks: Uganda faces challenges with infrastructure around venues, which has been a key concern for CAF’s technical team.
Team Participation Uncertainty
The CHAN tournament has struggled to gain widespread appeal, and participation has been an ongoing issue. Major footballing nations like Algeria, Egypt, South Africa, and Tunisia opted out of the qualifiers, citing scheduling conflicts with domestic leagues.
In a surprising twist, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana has announced its participation despite previously withdrawing due to the congested Premier Soccer League (PSL) schedule. The inclusion, less than a month before the tournament, raises questions about squad readiness, with plans likely to involve the U20 team, Amajita.
Algeria and Egypt have proposed sending junior teams to participate in a planned mini-tournament, which will determine the two remaining spots for CHAN. Other countries, including Gabon, Comoros, Gambia, and Malawi, are also being considered for this competition.
The absence of powerhouse nations like Algeria, Tunisia, and Egypt poses challenges for the tournament’s marketability. Without these teams, securing lucrative broadcast deals and sponsorships has proven difficult. The inclusion of U20 teams may further dilute commercial appeal.
The path forward
CAF will conduct the CHAN 2024 draw on January 15, 2025, in Nairobi, despite the tournament’s postponement. The exact date for the rescheduled tournament in August 2025 will be announced later.
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CHAN 2024: CAF postpones kick off date of highly-awaited tournament
The Confederation of African Football has yet again postopned the 2024 CHAN tournament, owing to a number of challenges ahead of the draw set to be held in Nairobi on Wednesday.
Dr. Patrice Motsepe expressed optimism, stating:
“I am confident that the stadiums, training fields, hotels, hospitals, and other infrastructure and facilities will be at the requisite CAF standards for hosting a very successful tournament in 2025.”
This postponement allows host nations more time to address infrastructure gaps and logistical challenges, ensuring CHAN 2025 sets new standards for African football.
While delays have marred the tournament’s preparation, the extended timeline offers an opportunity for Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda to showcase their readiness. However, CAF must also address team participation and commercial concerns to secure the tournament’s long-term success.