Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Nicholas Musonye has provided an update on the country’s preparedness for CHAN.Kenya will co-host the continental tournament alongside neighbours Tanzania and Uganda from Saturday 1 February to Friday 28 February 2025.There has been a beehive of activities across the countries especially in infrastructure that is set to be used for the tournament as Musonye discussed at length various aspects of the tourney in an interview with Telecomasia.Victor Wanyama, MacDonald Mariga’s touching gesture to ailing volleyball queen Janet WanjaMusonye began by expressing confidence that the deadlines set by CAF for the completion of various infrastructures would be met.“There is a lot of work to be done. We are working day and night, burning the midnight oil to make sure that we meet the deadlines. We have had meetings with the contractors at all the venues and we are keeping them on toes. As an LOC we are meeting daily to ensure that everything that needs to be done is done. It is not an easy job but we will get it done,” said Musonye.##NAJAVA_MECA_8593719##The veteran football administrator admitted to the big challenge the committee is facing to deliver within the set timelines.“The challenge is massive, we can’t deny that. There is a lot of work to do but the good news is that a lot has been achieved since we started work. Where we were before the Committee was formed is not where we are now. We have made tremendous steps and that is why the CAF delegation was really impressed when we came in. What remains is still a lot but we are doing the best we can to move with speed,” he stated.Victor Wanyama, MacDonald Mariga’s touching gesture to ailing volleyball queen Janet WanjaHowever, Musonye appreciated the efforts and support of CAF to Kenya in ensuring the country is ready for the tournament.“It was very crucial to have them here at such a time as this. Their presence gives us a lot of confidence and a stamp of approval that they have our backs and are behind us. The words from the president (Patrice Motsepe) really gave us the assurance that every Kenyan needed and now the buck stops with us and we keep working,” he added.##NAJAVA_MECA_8593716##The former CECAFA honcho who has vast experience in organizing regional tournaments is confident of the readiness of the country to successfully host CHAN.“Kenya is more than ready and capable. If we get our facilities in good shape, I know we are going to organize a very good tournament. We have everything that is required to have things going; our infrastructure is very good, we have good hospitals, our internet connectivity is the best in Africa and our hospitality can’t be compared to anyone. So I am very confident and optimistic.”Fred Ambani on changes made at AFC Leopards following unbeaten startMusonye added that the government is supporting the LOC and that they have received all the necessary assistance needed to accomplish their work.“The Ministry is doing everything it can to give us support and avail all resources needed. This matter is very close to President William Ruto’s heart and therefore, we get all the support we need. I believe they have done their best and we will keep pushing to have the best until we host our first game,” he said.##NAJAVA_MECA_8593739##Musonye also termed the tournament as a big step and milestone in developing football in the region.“This is really big for the region. We have always wanted to host big competitions even from the time when I was at CECAFA and I am delighted to see this achieved now. In terms of growing our football, this will be a very big step and a milestone. Also, we are co-hosting the 2027 AFCON and the CHAN will show us where we are and what we can improve in 2027.”Kenya U17 coach explains poor showing at U17 AFCON qualifiersIt is on that basis that Musonye said that it was crucial for the team to be set up early enough in order to deliver the best tournament.“We need to get everything in the best shape because the AFCON will not only be watched in Africa but across the globe. We saw how big the last AFCON in Ivory Coast was. We want ours to be even bigger. For us, work does not stop after CHAN. Immediately the final whistle goes for the CHAN final, our work for AFCON 2027 starts.”##NAJAVA_MECA_8593734##The former journalist also concluded by sending a word to the Kenyan and East African football fraternity at large.“For Kenyans, we are doing our absolute best to deliver an unforgettable CHAN 2025. As President Motsepe said, this is going to be the best ever in the tournament’s history and we will do exactly that. East Africa is known for its quality and workmanship and we will make sure that this is achieved and maintained. We will host a great tournament that will be remembered for many years by the rest of Africa,” he concluded.
