With Nairobi set to host the official draw for the eighth edition of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) on 15 January, organizers are racing to meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) deadlines as far as having facilities ready is concerned.Kenya, alongside Uganda and Tanzania, will co-host the 19-nation biennial event under the “Pamoja” theme between February 1-28.The championship serves as a precursor to the more prestigious 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals, for which the three nations have also been awarded the hosting rights.Ahead of the draw, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has emphasized that CHAN will bring significant benefits to Kenya’s football landscape and economy.##NAJAVA_MECA_8624504##“CHAN will be a platform for our youth to showcase their talent. The competition will improve the quality of football in Kenya and allow our players to shine,” CS Mvurya noted.Beyond the pitch, the tournament promises substantial economic gains. Mvurya highlighted how the influx of fans and teams from across the globe will provide a boost to Kenya’s economy while showcasing the country to the world.“This event will bring immense tourism and economic benefits. Fans from across the globe will travel here, boosting our economy and putting Kenya on the world stage,” he added.FKF president reveals when new Harambee Stars coach will be announcedMvurya also pointed to the potential for long-term benefits, such as increased opportunities for Kenyan players to gain exposure and secure professional stints in foreign leagues. “There are more profits to be reaped from this event. Our youth will gain exposure and potentially secure opportunities to play in foreign countries, exporting Kenyan talent to the world,” he said.The Cabinet Secretary assured Kenyans that preparations for the tournament are on track, with CAF inspectors and the CAF president expressing confidence in the readiness of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania to host the event.“CAF inspectors, along with the CAF president, have visited us over the past week, and they are confident that Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are ready to host the event,” Mvurya stated.Full list of FKF’s 12 standing committees membersHe also highlighted the expected influx of fans and teams and how the country is prepared to handle the visitors.“We expect 19 teams and over 20,000 fans to visit Kenya. As the games progress, this number will increase. Kenyans should prepare for an influx of visitors,” he said.Reassuring the public about the country’s capability to host CHAN successfully, Mvurya said, “Kenya is capable of hosting this event successfully. There is no need for worry; we have everything under control.”Alphonce Omija on what it meant to captain Harambee StarsTo ensure Kenyans are fully engaged with the event, Mvurya announced a series of upcoming promotional activities. “Today (Sunday), we announced that the draw for CHAN will take place soon. Over the coming weeks, we will have a series of events to ensure that every Kenyan receives the news,” he said.The Ministry of Sports and the event organizers plan to hold additional briefings and reviews to fine-tune logistics and marketing efforts. “More information will follow as we finalize our plans. Kenyans, be ready to support this historic event,” Mvurya urged.
