Kenyan government hands over Nyayo Stadium as countdown to CHAN begins

The Kenyan government has officially handed over Nyayo Stadium facility to the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) ahead of the tournament slated for August in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

While Kenya is set host the final, Nyayo has been designated to host a number of matches and training sessions but it has been under renovation. Handing over the Stadium to LOC chairman Nicholas Musonye, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Sports Salim Mvurya termed the handover a signal of the nation’s readiness to host CHAN.

“I have officially handed over the Nyayo National Stadium to the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, alongside my Defense counterpart, Hon. Soipan Tuya. This symbolic and strategic milestone signals our nation’s readiness as we enter the final stretch of preparations for the African Nations Championship,” said Mvurya.

“The handover follows extensive refurbishments carried out in accordance with CAF’s directives, including improvements to the pitch, seating, lighting, changing rooms, and security infrastructure, part of the broader government agenda to modernize Kenya’s sports facilities to international standards.

“Preparations are now in top gear as we ready the country to welcome the world to Kenya, to experience our warmth, our rich culture, and our unmatched passion for football.”

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, who were renovating the stadium, CS Soipan Tuya said: “The Ministry of Defence, is proud to have successfully led the upgrading of Nyayo Stadium, Kasarani (MISC), and all auxiliary stadia in readiness for Kenya’s co-hosting of next month’s CHAN and later on, the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, (AFCON).

“It is worth noting that after past failed attempts to meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) hosting rights standards in 1996 and in 2018, it is the first time that Kenya gets to host these continental events since independence.

“Nyayo Stadium and Kasarani will be the main venues for CHAN which will run from 2nd to 30th August. MISC will host the ultimate match on the final day of the championship.”

With over 18 African countries expected to participate, this tournament will showcase Kenya’s sporting prowess and hospitality before a global audience. The stadiums have undergone comprehensive upgrading to ensure the safety of participating teams, officials, and fans.

Key security arrangements include the installation of high-tech CCTV cameras at stadiums, controlled access points, crowd control measures, emergency response teams, and a coordinated presence of security personnel throughout the venues.