Kenya steps up preparation with security assessment ahead of TotalEnergies CHAN 2024

With just under three weeks to go before the start of the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), Kenyan authorities have reaffirmed the country's readiness to deliver a safe and world-class tournament.

Cabinet Secretary for Internal Security, Kipchumba Murkomen, led a high-level government delegation on an inspection tour of the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadium—two key venues for the tournament.

He was joined by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya as they also reviewed the designated training grounds in Nairobi.

Murkomen emphasized that Kenya has taken all necessary steps to guarantee the safety of players, officials, and fans throughout the month-long competition, which the country will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania from August 2 to 30.

“We want to assure Africa and the rest of the world that Kenya is fully prepared to host CHAN 2024 in a secure and welcoming environment,” Murkomen said.

“From our airports to our stadiums, comprehensive security protocols are in place to ensure the smooth running of the tournament.”

The ministers’ tour comes shortly after a Confederation of African Football (CAF) delegation concluded its inspection of the venues.

According to Murkomen, all CAF-recommended adjustments have now been fully implemented.

In a major development, the government also announced that all African nationals will enjoy visa-free entry into Kenya for the duration of the tournament—an unprecedented move aimed at encouraging continental travel and boosting fan attendance.

“We’ve inspected Nyayo, Kasarani, and the training facilities, and we are confident of our level of preparedness,” Murkomen added.

“Kenya is not only ready, but also determined to offer a memorable CHAN experience.”

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya echoed the sentiment, noting that contingency plans, access controls, and ticketing systems have been reviewed and optimized.

“As a government, we’ve left nothing to chance. CHAN 2024 is not just a football tournament—it’s a moment of national pride,” said Mvurya.

The tournament will kick off on August 3 at Kasarani Stadium, where hosts Kenya face two-time winners DR Congo in the Group A opener.

Later that day, Nyayo Stadium will host the clash between former champions Morocco and Angola.

The final will take place on August 30 at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani.