Tickets sell out for Kenya’s CHAN 2024 opener against DR Congo
Regular tickets were priced at Sh200, VIP at Sh500, and VVIP at Sh1,000.
Tickets for Kenya’s opening match at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) against DR Congo have sold out, just days after organisers ruled out match-day sales to enhance safety and crowd control.
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) confirmed the development on Sunday, highlighting the soaring interest in the tournament, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Regular tickets were priced at Sh200, VIP at Sh500, and VVIP at Sh1,000.
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“This is a clear sign of the enthusiasm and excitement among football fans, not only in Kenya but across the continent,” LOC chair Nicholas Musonye said.
He had earlier announced that fans would be required to purchase tickets in advance, adding, “There will be no ticket sales on match days.”
The opening Group A fixture, set for Sunday, August 3, will be held at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, from 3 pm.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya urged fans from across Africa to turn up in large numbers and support their national teams, assuring them that security measures were firmly in place.
“We want fans to enjoy football without fear. Security arrangements have been tightened to ensure their safety during the tournament,” Mvurya said.
CAF Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba also appealed to Kenyans to show unity and national pride.
“We urge Kenyans to embrace the ‘Pamoja’ spirit and support Harambee Stars. A full stadium sends a powerful message as Kenya bids to host the 2027 AFCON,” he said.
Kasarani Stadium will host all of Kenya’s group-stage matches, with Nyayo National Stadium designated as a backup venue. Kenya’s second match will be against Angola, with tickets scheduled to go on sale starting midnight on Monday.
Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a major financial boost to the tournament, raising the total prize pool to $10.4 million (Sh1.344 billion), a 32 per cent increase from the previous edition.
The eventual champions will take home $3.5 million (Sh452.4 million), marking a 75 per cent jump from the last tournament’s winner’s share.
CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe described the move as part of a broader plan to transform African football.
“We are excited about the upcoming CHAN in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. This increase in prize money will support the development of locally based players and help strengthen the global competitiveness of African football,” Motsepe said.
“This competition is a key part of our strategy to make African football more appealing to fans, sponsors and global broadcasters.”
The 19-team contest features continental giants such as defending champions Senegal, four-time winners Morocco and former champions DR Congo, Algeria, Nigeria, Guinea and Zambia.
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