Kenya is awaiting CAF's final verdict on whether the country will join its regional counterparts Uganda and Tanzania in co-hosting 2024 CHAN.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed has expressed optimism and a sense of urgency as Kenya ramps up preparations to co-host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) with neighboring Uganda and Tanzania.
Speaking after the final Confederation of African Football (CAF) inspection, led by Director of Competitions Samson Adamu, Mohammed highlighted the progress made and the challenges ahead.
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An update over the renovation status of both Nyayo & Kasarani before the January 20th deadline, when Kenya will be required to submit the stadia for final inspection ahead of the 2024 CHAN.
"We are delighted to report that we had a very successful two-day tour of the facilities expected to host the upcoming CHAN competitions. We were joined by a delegation from CAF, which was comprised of various experts. Now, we await their final report," Mohammed stated via TV 47.
The CAF inspection marked a critical milestone for Kenya, which has faced significant delays in infrastructure upgrades compared to its co-hosts.
With just weeks remaining before the tournament, the pressure is mounting to complete renovations at key venues, including Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadium.
Mohammed acknowledged the need for swift action Aas preparatins ramp up ahead of CAF's final verdict.
"So far, we are quite encouraged by the training facilities we have visited. However, there is still quite a bit of work to be done on some of the primary stadiums that will host the event," he added.
Despite the challenges, Mohammed expressed confidence in the country's ability to deliver.
"I am confident that the contractors, government officials, all stakeholders involved in this process, and the relevant committees will deliver on their mandate. Overall, I can confidently say that things are looking good. Of course, there is still some work to be done, but we have a very competent and strong team to handle this event successfully."
The next significant milestone in the CHAN preparations is the tournament draw, scheduled for Wednesday, January 15, at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC).
This event will set the stage for the continental football extravaganza poised to go down in February.
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Kenya awaits fate as CAF sets date for CHAN draw in Nairobi
Kenya will find out its opponents on Wednesday, January 15, when CAF conducts the draw for 2025 CHAN in Nairobi.
With CHAN offering Kenya a chance to showcase its organizational capacity and footballing talent, all eyes are on the nation's final sprint to readiness.
The tournament promises to be a landmark event for East Africa, uniting Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in hosting one of the continent’s premier football competitions.