With just 61 days to go, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—collectively known as the Pamoja Nations—have reaffirmed their commitment to successfully hosting the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), set to run from August 2 to 30, 2025.
Speaking during a joint press briefing held in Nairobi on June 4, the Sports Ministers from the three host nations, led by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Sports Salim Mvurya, announced major logistical reforms, including the introduction of a unified “Pamoja Visa” and tax exemptions on equipment used during the tournament.
“We have agreed as ministers from the three countries that we will work with our respective ministries in charge of immigration to ensure seamless visa entry,” said Mvurya.
“We are also discussing a Pamoja Visa, which will be very critical for the tournament. Please come and witness, and I’m very sure it will be the best competition in the history of CHAN,” he added.
Seamless Regional Movement
The Pamoja Visa is expected to facilitate the unrestricted movement of fans, players, and officials between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania for the duration of CHAN 2025. The visa agreement is currently being formalised by the respective immigration departments, marking a significant step toward deeper regional integration and cooperation in sports tourism.
Tax Exemptions for Equipment
To ease logistical bottlenecks and reduce the cost burden on participating teams and vendors, the three nations have also agreed to waive import duties and taxes on essential CHAN-related equipment.
“We are looking at how we can institute tax exemptions and other related measures to facilitate the smooth arrival of equipment across the three countries,” Mvurya stated.
Readiness Despite Regional Tensions
Mvurya addressed concerns that recent diplomatic tensions, particularly between Kenya and Tanzania, could hinder preparations, assuring stakeholders that the governments are aligned and ready.
“Each country is addressing all that is required to ensure that the tournament is seamless,” said the CS.
The CHAN Technical Committee is expected to reconvene on June 10 to finalise the event’s budgeting and assess the completion status of ongoing infrastructure projects.
Kenya’s Group and Safety Readiness
Kenya is drawn into Group A, alongside two-time champions Morocco, Angola, and Zambia. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued strict stadium compliance guidelines, requiring:
- Secure stadium perimeters
- Fixed, unbreakable seats with backrests at least 30 cm high
- Emergency evacuation plans
- Controlled access points
To this end, stewards and security personnel have been undergoing intensive training over the past two weeks to handle the anticipated influx of fans and maintain public safety across all match venues.
The 2025 CHAN tournament overall budget Is pegged at about $39 million (roughly KSh 5.05 billion), highlighting its significance not only as a continental sports event, but also as a driver of economic activity and regional unity.
This edition marks the first time the championship will be co-hosted by three countries, with the Pamoja spirit symbolising unity, collaboration, and shared ambition among East African nations.
