NAIROBI, Kenya – As Kenya hosts the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), the government has called on football fans to uphold discipline, warning that the country’s ambition to stage larger continental tournaments hinges on the conduct of its supporters.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security Dr. Raymond Omollo said Wednesday that the tournament is not just a celebration of sport but a national responsibility that places Kenya under the watchful eye of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
“Hosting CHAN is a moment of pride, but also a critical test. Every action inside and outside the stadium reflects on our readiness to host future events like AFCON 2027,” Dr. Omollo said in a statement.
CAF, he noted, has strict guidelines on fan behavior, safety standards, and stadium security—conditions Kenya must meet consistently.
Violations such as barrier jumping, disorderly conduct, or property damage could draw formal warnings or hurt future bids.
“Even isolated incidents of hooliganism could cost us dearly—not just in reputation but in eligibility to host future tournaments,” he said.
With CHAN seen as a dress rehearsal for the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations in 2027, government and football authorities are keen to show that Kenya’s passion for the game is matched by civility and organizational maturity.
“Stadium renovations alone won’t earn us AFCON. It’s the discipline of our fans, the efficiency of our security systems, and the overall matchday experience that will matter most to CAF and international observers,” Omollo added.
He urged Kenyans to be ambassadors of the country’s sporting potential by arriving on time, respecting stewards, and cheering responsibly.
Fans were also encouraged to purchase tickets early, wear national colours, and throw their support behind the Harambee Stars, who will feature in CHAN matches.
Security agencies have ramped up operations to ensure safety during the tournament, but authorities stress that public cooperation remains critical.
“Our success depends on collective discipline. Let’s make CHAN 2024 a model of what Kenyan hospitality, organization, and fan culture can look like on the continental stage,” Dr. Omollo said.
The month-long tournament, hosted in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Eldoret, brings together Africa’s best home-based players and is seen as a milestone for Kenya after years of infrastructural and administrative challenges in sports management.
