Government, FKF issue stern warning to CHAN fans after Kasarani security breach ahead of Kenya, Angola clash
CAF has since imposed a fine of Sh2.5 million on the FKF following multiple security violations during the CHAN 2024 opening match between Kenya and DR Congo at Kasarani.
The government and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) have warned African Nations Championship (CHAN) fans to exercise discipline and comply with stadium guidelines, stating that any further crowd trouble witnessed last Sunday will not be tolerated ahead of Thursday’s match.
In a press briefing, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo indicated that Sunday’s breach at Kasarani Stadium was a direct result of the delayed deployment of stewards and security officers, an error he said has since been rectified.
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“On Sunday, we had a late deployment. That is what led to people overpowering security, but we have corrected that. Deployment is now being conducted on time, allowing people to be cleared quickly upon arrival and preventing congestion. The barriers have been put in place properly so that every fan is directed to the correct gate,” he said.
He noted that delays in mobilising security from external estates and late steward arrival contributed to the problem.
“We had to open the gates at a time when deployment was not complete. That mismatch caused a lapse,” Omollo said.
For Thursday’s match between Kenya and Angola, Omollo said all security deployments were complete by 1:00 pm, six hours before kick-off at 7:00 pm.
“We started deployment at 1 o’clock because the game is at 7:00 pm. We are giving people enough time to come in without causing congestion. There’s now a designated gathering ground where fans can relax, eat and get water. So today, there’s no hitch, everything has been done,” he said.
He reiterated that Kenya’s role as co-host of the 2024 CHAN places the country under intense scrutiny, especially with CAF’s strict security and crowd control protocols.
“CHAN is our audition for hosting the AFCON 2027 tournament. Every match is an opportunity to prove we can host Africa’s biggest football event,” he said.
CAF has since imposed a fine of Sh2.5 million on the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) following multiple security violations during the CHAN 2024 opening match between Kenya and DR Congo at the Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) also responded to the sanctions with a strong statement condemning recent fan misconduct during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) match between Kenya and DR Congo.
In a press release issued on Thursday, FKF acknowledged the disciplinary action taken by CAF following multiple security breaches at Kasarani.
The match, which marked Kenya’s debut in the continental tournament, drew massive local support but was marred by scenes of chaos and disorder both inside and outside the stadium.
The federation expressed regret over the incidents and emphasised that such acts of indiscipline pose serious risks to public safety and threaten Kenya’s credibility as a tournament host.
“As a host, we reaffirm our commitment to delivering CHAN 2024 as a safe, inclusive, and dignified tournament,” the statement read. “Any acts of indiscipline not only compromise public safety but also tarnish our national image and jeopardise future hosting opportunities, including preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.”
While commending the majority of fans who supported Harambee Stars in an orderly and patriotic manner, FKF sent a firm warning to those who flout stadium rules.
The federation stressed that no tolerance would be shown for the use of flares, smoke bombs, or any other prohibited materials, and urged supporters to maintain respectful and lawful behaviour throughout the tournament.
FKF also called on all Kenyans to rise to the occasion and help preserve the spirit and integrity of CHAN 2024. “Let us demonstrate to Africa and the world that Kenya is a proud, capable, and responsible sporting nation,” the statement concluded.
According to a report by the CAF Security Officer, the match, held last Sunday, was marred by serious crowd control failures that raised red flags over Kenya’s preparedness to host international football tournaments. Among the breaches reported was a stampede at Gate 11, which endangered lives as fans forced their way into the venue.
In addition, several supporters gained unauthorised access to restricted Public Security Areas (PSA), while a motorcycle was captured dangerously navigating through dense crowds outside the stadium, posing a major safety risk. Behind Block 18 stands, some fans were seen lighting fires, further compromising safety within the facility.
CAF also flagged an incident in which Kenyan State Security personnel reportedly blocked access to the VVIP area for CAF protocol officials, including a member of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s close protection team.
As a result of these breaches, CAF issued a series of penalties to FKF. These include a fine of Sh644,500 ($5,000) for the stampede and unauthorised access to restricted zones, and a further Sh1,289,000 ($10,000) for the obstruction and mistreatment of CAF officials and guests. Additionally, CAF issued an official warning over the fires ignited in the stands.
CAF has given FKF 60 days to clear the penalties.
Additionally, FKF was fined Sh644,500 (USD 5,000) over a separate disciplinary case from a Morocco vs Angola match. However, Sh322,250 (USD 2,500) of that fine is suspended on condition that there are no repeat offences during the remainder of CHAN 2024.
Omollo cautioned that incidents like pushing, jumping barriers, and vandalism reflect poorly on Kenya’s reputation and could jeopardise future hosting opportunities.
“Needless to say, such actions damage our reputation, international standing and our ability to host future tournaments. CAF and other stakeholders are closely observing not just the games, but the overall fan experience and security management. Our stadium upgrades mean little if our fans do not cooperate with the security and stewards on the ground,” he said.
“We must show we are not just passionate; we must also demonstrate that we honour the game and opportunity. Let’s match patriotism with responsibility.”
With CHAN 2024 co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, and with Kenya eyeing the 2027 AFCON bid, Omollo stressed that fan conduct will weigh heavily in the evaluation.
“It is a proud moment for Kenya as a world-renowned sporting nation. But our conduct as fans has serious national implications,” he said.
He urged fans to buy tickets early, observe security instructions, and maintain order throughout match days.
“Buy your ticket early, show up for the game on time, wear your desired colours, cheer your heart out and support our national team, Harambee Stars,” he said.
“Let us not allow a few negative incidents to ruin the efforts of thousands. Security teams are working tirelessly. Let us support them by cooperating and observing the protocols and directives they give us. The whole world is watching; let’s represent ourselves well.”
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