On Wednesday, 15 January, the Kenya International Convention Center (KICC) was transformed into a breathtaking scene of elegance and excitement as the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) draw took center stage.With an orange theme, the event brought together prominent figures from the world of sports and government, setting the stage for a historic tournament.##NAJAVA_MECA_8632815##VIP guests arrived to a red-carpet welcome, adding an air of grandeur to the occasion.Among the dignitaries were Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya; Uganda’s Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang; and Tanzania’s counterpart, Palamagamba John Aidan Mwaluko.Key figures in regional football, including Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed, Uganda Football Federation President Moses Magogo, and Tanzania Football Federation President Wallace Karia, also graced the event. Legendary Kenyan players like Kenneth Muguna further added star power.The well-decorated hall, darkened for effect with a spotlight on the orange-themed stage, created an intimate yet electric atmosphere.Legendary rugby star Lavin Asego served as the evening’s host, charming the audience with his wit as he introduced the night’s proceedings.The energy ramped up with electrifying performances from dancers adorned in vibrant Ankara outfits, followed by a stellar performance by celebrated Kenyan artist Bien.FKF President Mohammed and CS Mvurya officially welcomed participants to Kenya, with CAF President Patrice Motsepe’s message played on screen, emphasizing the significance of the tournament.Attendees were then treated to a preview of the 19 teams competing in the continental showpiece.Then came the most awaited moment of the night—the draw. The anticipation in the room was palpable as football legends McDonald Mariga from Kenya, Hassan Waswa of Uganda, and Mrisho Ngasa of Tanzania took to the stage to conduct the proceedings.When Mariga revealed that Kenya would face Morocco in Pool A, a palpable sense of shock rippled through the audience. As a football powerhouse, Morocco presents a formidable challenge for Kenya in their CHAN debut.The evening concluded with a thrilling performance by Uganda’s Ghetto Kids, keeping the mood lively as the media shifted focus to post-event interviews.The two-hour event was a masterclass in blending glamour, cultural spectacle, and football anticipation.The 2024 CHAN tournament is historic for several reasons. It is the first CHAN to be co-hosted by three countries—Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—and marks Kenya’s debut in the CHAN finals.This milestone also represents the country’s first hosting of a major continental football event, a significant leap for Kenyan football.Adding to the prestige, CAF unveiled a newly designed trophy featuring 54 lines symbolizing African unity. The prize money has also been significantly increased, with the champion set to take home Ksh 453 million ($3.5 million) from a total pool of Ksh 1.35 billion ($10.4 million).Why Ghost Mulee wants Francis Kimanzi to lead Harambee Stars CHAN finals
