As Kenya readies to host one of the continent’s biggest football tournaments next month, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen is asking Kenyans to be on their best behaviour.
The 2025 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN), which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania, is expected to draw thousands of fans from across the continent. Murkomen says it’s a chance for the country to display warmth and hospitality not discord.
“Let’s be at our best behaviour because we are having visitors around,” said Murkomen. “Even in any family, they say that when visitors come at home, you must be at your best behaviour. Let’s ensure this time round our visitors feel at home.”
His comments come as anti-government chants mainly from young people have become more common at public events. One such instance occurred during Kenya’s World Cup qualifier against Gabon at Nyayo Stadium in March 2024, though the protests were relatively subdued.
Murkomen urged Kenyans not only to act with respect but also to help visitors find their way around the city. “Many people will be in town and they will miss directions… They will want to know the best places to visit. Please, let’s be courteous to our visitors.”
The Cabinet Secretary also assured the public that security agencies are fully prepared to provide a safe environment for everyone attending the month-long tournament.
“We want to provide world-class security services to ensure that the safety of our visitors is guaranteed. We want to make every facility, including Utalii, as safe as we want. We will do everything to ensure this tournament is very successful,” he said.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, who spoke at the same briefing, echoed Murkomen’s sentiments and praised the security preparations already in place.
“As a government, we are sure we’re going to have very good matches in a good environment,” Mvurya said. “Harambee Stars is a Kenyan team. It’s playing for Kenya not for a region, political party, or tribe.”
Harambee Stars will play all their matches at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani. Other Group A matches will be held at Nyayo Stadium, which will also host a Group C clash between Niger and Algeria.
Training sessions for visiting teams will be held at Police Sacco Stadium, Ulinzi Complex, and Utalii Grounds.
The CHAN tournament kicks off next month and marks Kenya’s first time competing in the continental championship.
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