Kenya is once again at risk of losing the opportunity to host a major tournament, as concerns mount regarding its preparedness for the upcoming Africa Nations Championships (CHAN) in 2025.
Scheduled to be co-hosted with Uganda and Tanzania, this tournament serves as a precursor to the larger Africa Cup of Nations set for 2027.
CHAN 2025 Dates and Current Readiness
The CHAN tournament, which showcases players from local leagues across Africa, is set to take place from February 1 to 28, 2025.
However, with less than 60 days remaining until kickoff, Kenya is falling behind in completing essential venues.
A recent assessment by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) revealed that key stadiums, including Kasarani and Nyayo, are still under construction.
Currently, Kasarani Stadium is reported to be 71% complete, and Kenya has until December 31 to finalize renovations.
This stadium has been closed since December of last year.
Meanwhile, Nyayo Stadium is undergoing significant upgrades, including the installation of new floodlights.
Other training facilities such as Police Sacco Stadium, Kasarani Annex, Ulinzi Sports Complex, and Kenya Academy of Sports also require improvements before they can be deemed ready for the tournament.
Local Organizing Committee Delays
In addition to venue preparations, Kenya is lagging in forming a Local Organizing Committee (LOC), while its co-hosts have already established their teams.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has consistently assured that Kenya will be prepared to host CHAN 2025 despite these challenges.
A Race Against Time
With the clock ticking down to the tournament, Kenya must accelerate its efforts to meet CAF’s requirements or risk losing its hosting rights.
The stakes are high not only for the nation’s reputation but also for its ability to successfully host future international events.
As preparations continue, all eyes will be on Kenya to see if it can rise to the occasion and deliver a successful CHAN tournament in 2025.
