The Government has designated six official fan zones in Nairobi to offer Harambee Stars supporters an inclusive, safe, and festive atmosphere during Sunday’s 2024 Total Energies African Nations Championship (CHAN) fixture against Zambia.
The Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, announced that the zones will be located at Uhuru Park (CBD), the Luckysummer–Ngomongo area behind Kasarani Stadium, Dandora Stadium, Utalii (Stima Club), Jacaranda Grounds, and Kibera DC Grounds.
“These zones, strategically located within Nairobi’s neighbourhoods, will allow fans to watch the match on large screens in a safe, well-managed environment while easing crowd pressure on Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani stadium,” stated Mvurya.
“They will bring the stadium atmosphere closer to the people while helping us manage attendance in line with CAF requirements,” he added.
Further, the CS lauded Kenyans for their unwavering support of the national team, urging them to pair their passion with discipline and adherence to tournament protocols.
“We have assured the Confederation of African Football (CAF) that the Government will support FKF to ensure Kenyans conform to set standards and regulations; the heightened security measures and awareness campaign will enlighten fans on what is expected of them,” affirmed Mvurya.
The CS, who was speaking during an impromptu media briefing at Talanta Plaza ahead of Sunday’s 2024 Total Energies African Nations Championship (CHAN) match between Kenya and Zambia, appealed to supporters nationwide to help the country comply with international standards, avoid sanctions, and protect Kenya’s hosting reputation.
“We understand the excitement following Harambee Stars’ performance, but we must exercise restraint and avoid actions that contravene CAF regulations. That is the highest form of patriotism,” he emphasised.
Following an intensive strategy session with CAF officials, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), the Local Organizing Committee, and senior National Police Service officers, the Government resolved to enhance security at both MISC-Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadiums.
The measures will include thorough checks at entry points, ticket scanning for verification, and increased police oversight inside and outside the venues.
“The Government has received reports of attempts to circulate counterfeit tickets, in response, we have engaged the ticketing office to implement strict authentication measures to ensure only genuine ticket holders gain access,” revealed the CS.
He stressed that the measures are aimed at protecting fans from fraud, maintaining order, and safeguarding the integrity of the tournament.
“Only spectators with valid match tickets will be allowed entry into the stadium,” asserted Mvurya.
Ultimately, the CS urged Kenyans to turn out in large numbers at the official fan zones or within the stadium’s set capacity to rally behind Harambee Stars in their final group match against Zambia.