Kenya is primed to host the 2024 African Nations Championship, widely known as CHAN, as per an official announcement from the Cabinet Office under the Executive Office of The President on Monday evening.
In an official statement shared on the State House’s social media channels, the cabinet meeting revealed Kenya’s selection as the host nation for the continental championship in 2024, in addition to securing two more significant footballing events.
“In addition to hosting AFCON 2027, Kenya has also been chosen to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in September 2024, the CECAFA Under-18 Championship in November 2023, and the AFCON Under-15 (Pan-African Schools Football) CECAFA Region Championship in December 2023,” a segment of the statement conveyed.
The news of Kenya hosting CHAN 2024 arrives shortly after the country successfully secured the bid to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside neighboring East African nations Uganda and Tanzania.
In preparation for the AFCON 2027 and CHAN 2024 tournaments, the Cabinet has granted approval for the renovation of three stadiums and the construction of a state-of-the-art complex.
“As part of efforts to enhance Kenya’s status as a sporting hub, the Cabinet has greenlit various construction and renovation projects for facilities to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027. This ambitious plan includes the construction of the Talanta Sports Complex in Jamhuri, Nairobi, as well as extensive renovations for Nyayo National Stadium, Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, and Kipchoge Keino Stadium. The renovations encompass pitch improvements, upgraded facilities, ICT infrastructure enhancements, canopy installations, and the establishment of Hustler Bazaars,” the statement noted.
These upgrades are aimed at meeting the high standards mandated by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for this prestigious continental event. Additionally, beyond AFCON 2027, these initiatives will position Kenya as a competitive sporting destination, unlocking economic opportunities while fostering sports development.
However, it’s important to note that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has yet to officially confirm the hosts for the 2024 edition of CHAN.
CHAN is a biennial tournament featuring 18 nations, with participating teams comprising players from their respective national league competitions. Senegal currently holds the title of defending champions, having defeated hosts Algeria 1-0 in the 2022 edition.
It’s worth mentioning that Kenya was initially awarded the right to host the 2018 edition of the tournament but later lost the hosting rights due to unpreparedness.
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