Nairobi, Thursday: The Football Kenya Federation has formally appealed to Confederation of African Football (CAF) to lift sanctions which slashed fans being allowed to attend national team Harambee Stars matches for the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) to 60 percent.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya revealed the new development on Wednesday, August 20th, after overseeing final preparations undertaken by the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for Friday’s quarter-final clash between Kenya and Madagascar.
“FKF has formally lodged an appeal with CAF. Meanwhile, I am satisfied with the comprehensive preparations being undertaken for Friday’s quarterfinal match,” said Mvurya.
“CHAN 2024 has progressively profiled our country on the continental stage and showcased the immense talent of the Harambee Stars.
“I urge Kenyans to continue on this positive trajectory of unity and purpose, without invoking negative politics, as we stand together in support of our team.”
On the Zambia which Kenya won 1-0 to confirm their spot in the knockout stages on their debut campaign, Mvurya said: “We did not have any incident that could attract sanctions from CAF and, therefore, we want to thank the 12th man, the fans, the security team and all stakeholders who played a key role in ensuring a seamless game on Sunday.
“This affirmation underscores Kenya’s commitment to delivering a safe and world-class tournament experience.”
Mvurya continued: “On behalf of the Government of Kenya, I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to the Harambee Stars for their historic achievement of qualifying for quarter finals and topping Group A with 10 points at the ongoing 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN).
“This milestone marks our most significant continental performance since 1987, when Kenya’s national team reached the football final at the All-Africa Games. With every match played, our national team has unified the country and reminded us of the beauty of our identity as one people, bound together by our enduring love for sports and victory.”
He added: “Placed in a group dubbed ‘group of death’, the Harambee Stars faced seasoned opponents and carried the weight of doubt from naysayers who questioned our ability to rise to the occasion.
“Yet, match after match, coupled with consistent motivation from H.E President William Ruto, our boys chose hope over fear, optimism over despair, and belief over doubt.
“They demonstrated resilience, discipline, and excellence, proving that Kenya’s spirit cannot be shaken by the odds, and continues to inspire a new generation of Kenyans to reach for greatness. Equally, I wish to recognize and celebrate the unwavering support of the 12th Player, our fans.
“At the Kenya–Zambia clash, Kasarani roared with over 26,000 supporters, while more than 50,000 Kenyans gathered at official fan zones across Nairobi.
“The scenes of joy, passion, and patriotism were unmatched, with every clap, cheer, and song lighting the flame of national unity. This success is the result of collective effort.”
To enhance fan engagement and manage stadium crowds more effectively, the number of official fan zones across Nairobi has been expanded from 10 to 13.
The newly added locations are Ruiru, Camp Toyoyo (Dagoretti), and Babadogo.
These complement the existing fan zones at Uhuru Park, Archives, Dandora, Jacaranda, Clay City, Githurai, Kibra DC Grounds and Lucky Summer.
“I am proud to report that both at Kasarani and across these fan zones, there were no incidents of disorder or breaches of CAF regulations. Fans celebrated with dignity and discipline at all 10 official fan zones, namely: Uhuru Park, Jacaranda Grounds, DC Grounds, Safari Rally Grounds, Dandora Stadium, Utalii Sports Grounds, Pandi-Pieri Grounds, Nairobi CBD (Archives), Clay City Grounds, and Babadogo Play Ground,” explained Mvurya.
“This exemplary conduct across both the stadium and the fan zones demonstrated that Kenya can host and enjoy football at the highest standards of safety, order, and respect. As Harambee Stars advance to the quarter-finals to face Madagascar, I call upon Kenyans once again to turn up in numbers, those with tickets to fill the stadium with unwavering support while the rest of us rally from designated fan zones, standing united behind our national team.”
“He concluded: “The Government further appreciates the invaluable collaboration of the County Government of Nairobi, the National Police Service, FKF, the LOC, sponsors, and all stakeholders for enhancing fan experience while maintaining safety and security for all. To our fans, let us rise again on Friday as we face Madagascar and once again show the world of the Kenyan spirit at its best. Together, we win.”
During Kenya’s last group-stage match against Zambia, over 50,000 fans turned out at the fan zones — a testament to the Harambee Stars’ growing national support.
STORY: DENNIS MABUKA (CHAN LOC)
PHOTOS: EUNIVE MUTHUI
This update is generally attributed to Pura Vida’s Content team. Feel free to shared any feedback or or relevant info incase of inaccuracies.
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