As the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) approaches, Kenya is intensifying efforts to ensure its readiness to co-host the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania. Scheduled from August 2 to 30, this edition marks the first time CHAN will be jointly hosted by three nations.
A delegation from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is currently in Nairobi, inspecting key venues such as Nyayo National Stadium and Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. Training facilities, including Police Sacco Stadium, Kasarani Annex, and Kirigiti Stadium, are also under review.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya highlighted the importance of these inspections, stating, “The next few weeks will be crucial. We are focusing on preparing our team, Harambee Stars, to ensure they are in top shape and ready to win the CHAN trophy.”
Kenya’s preparations have faced challenges, notably the postponement of CHAN from February to August 2025 due to infrastructural delays. CAF’s earlier assessments indicated that facilities like Nyayo Stadium required significant upgrades to meet international standards. Renovations at Nyayo have since progressed, with improvements including enhanced floodlighting, upgraded changing rooms, and the installation of VAR technology.
Meanwhile, Kasarani Stadium has been undergoing extensive renovations, with the government implementing a 24-hour work schedule to expedite completion. Upgrades encompass seating installations, pitch refurbishment, and media center enhancements.
Despite these efforts, concerns remain about Kenya’s readiness compared to its co-hosts. Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and Uganda’s Mandela National Stadium have already received CAF approval, while Kenya continues to finalize its preparations.
On the sporting front, Harambee Stars face a formidable challenge in Group A, drawn alongside two-time CHAN champions Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as strong contenders Angola and Zambia.
As the countdown to CHAN 2025 continues, Kenya’s commitment to delivering a successful tournament remains steadfast. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the nation’s readiness to host Africa’s premier competition for home-based players.
