With just weeks remaining before the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) kicks off, the Kenyan government has confirmed that its flagship stadiums—Nyayo and Kasarani—will be completed and handed over by June 25. This announcement was made by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya during a national briefing on the country’s CHAN and AFCON infrastructure.
Both Nyayo and Kasarani have been undergoing extensive renovations since 2023 and are now in their final stages of readiness. The upgrades are aimed at meeting CAF standards, with a focus on modernising the playing surfaces, enhancing spectator seating, upgrading floodlights, media boxes, and bolstering stadium security systems.
Mvurya also confirmed that the two designated training facilities—Ulinzi Complex and Police Sacco Stadium—are part of the same delivery schedule. “We have agreed with all contractors that the handover of the keys will be on the 25th of this month. That includes Nyayo Stadium, Kasarani Stadium, and the two designated training grounds. Everyone is working toward that deadline,” he said.
The announcement comes after a wave of concern over Kenya’s preparedness to co-host CHAN 2024 alongside Uganda and Tanzania. Inspectors from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) had expressed cautious optimism after a recent visit, urging urgent attention to key areas still under construction.
This government reassurance is seen as a key milestone not just for CHAN 2024, which will run from August 2 to August 30, but also for Kenya’s longer-term ambitions to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The stadiums under renovation will play a central role in both tournaments.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, which Mvurya leads, views these infrastructure projects as foundational to building Kenya’s profile as a trusted destination for high-level international competitions.
As the handover date nears, anticipation continues to build across the country, with contractors working round the clock to meet the tight timelines. The successful completion of these venues will not only affirm Kenya’s capacity to host but also shape its legacy on the continental sporting stage.
