CAF inspectors raise concerns over Nyayo and Kasarani stadia for CHAN 2024
By Rama Mohammed |
CAF inspectors have flagged delays in renovations at Nyayo and Kasarani Stadia, warning that Kenya could lose hosting rights for the 2024 CHAN if the facilities are not completed by 31 December. The government remains confident, with Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen assuring that all work will be finished on time.
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The Confederation of African Football (CAF) inspectors have expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing renovations at Nyayo and Kasarani Stadia, which are set to host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). Kenya has until Tuesday, 31 December, to complete the work or risk losing the hosting rights.
The CAF inspection team visited Kenya from 27 to 30 November to assess the country’s preparedness for the tournament. The team included representatives from departments such as marketing, communication, broadcast, competition, safety and security, medical, and protocol. While progress has been made, an insider from the team revealed significant concerns about the state of the facilities.
“Everyone knows the work must be fast-tracked to avoid embarrassment. Nyayo National Stadium is less concerning compared to Kasarani,” the source said. At Kasarani Stadium, renovations are approximately 72% complete, but several critical areas lag. The canopy is only 40% finished, the sound system stands at 10%, and the lift is at 60%. Although a new lift installation is underway to improve functionality, areas like the arena, ramps, and changing rooms are 80% complete.
During a visit to Kasarani Stadium on 28 November, Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen assured Kenyans that the facilities would be ready by the deadline. Through his post on X (formerly Twitter), Murkomen expressed confidence that ongoing work would meet CAF’s requirements, stating, “The government is fully committed to delivering these facilities on time.”
The government is currently undertaking construction and renovation of sports facilities in different parts of the country.
— KIPCHUMBA MURKOMEN, E.G.H (@kipmurkomen) November 28, 2024
To ensure we deliver all the facilities on time, to requisite standards, and to make sure they are well maintained, strategic leadership is critical.… pic.twitter.com/siBCq4pu98
Nyayo Stadium also has pending work, particularly the installation of new floodlights, which is in progress. Training facilities such as Police Sacco Stadium and Kasarani Annex require new changing rooms, while the pitch at Ulinzi Sports Complex needs upgrades.
Renovations at Kasarani Stadium began in December 2023, while Nyayo Stadium was closed for upgrades in August 2024. Both projects aim to prepare for CHAN 2024 and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Additionally, the construction of a new facility, Talanta City, is underway in preparation for AFCON 2027 and is expected to be completed by December 2025.
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