Nairobi, Kenya| As the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) fervor grips Kenya, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed and Local Organising Committee (LOC) Chairman Nicholas Musonye have issued a passionate plea to Harambee Stars fans to uphold discipline in the upcoming matches of the CHAN 2024 tournament.
They further implored the fans to adhere to ticketing protocols, and cooperate with security forces ahead of the highly anticipated group stage match against Zambia at the iconic Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, this Sunday.
A Call for Order Amidst Football Fever
With Kenya basking in the spotlight as a co-host of the 2025 CHAN tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania, the stakes are high for both the national team and its fervent supporters.
Mohammed emphasized that while the passion of Kenyan football fans is unparalleled, it must be channeled within the Confederation of African Football (CAF) regulations to avoid jeopardizing the country’s reputation and hosting privileges.
“Kenya is under the continental spotlight, and the world is watching how we conduct ourselves as a footballing nation,” Mohammed said during a press briefing in Nairobi.
“Crowd trouble or security breaches could lead to severe CAF sanctions, including the potential loss of our right to host future fixtures. We cannot afford to let indiscipline tarnish our growing reputation as a hub for African football.”
Ticketing Guidelines and Early Arrival Advised
To ensure a seamless matchday experience, Mohammed underscored that only e-tickets purchased through the official ticketing platform will be valid for entry.
Fans attempting to use counterfeit or unofficial tickets risk being denied access, which could lead to unnecessary confrontations at the gates.
“We urge all fans to purchase their tickets early from the authorized platform and arrive at Kasarani Stadium at least five hours before kick-off,” Mohammed advised. “This will allow ample time for security checks and ensure everyone is seated comfortably to cheer on our Harambee Stars.”
The FKF President also called on supporters to follow instructions from event stewards and security personnel diligently, emphasizing that their cooperation is critical to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all attendees.
Unprecedented Demand Fuels Challenges
The 2025 CHAN tournament has ignited a football frenzy across Kenya, with matches—including those not involving the Harambee Stars—consistently drawing capacity crowds.
This overwhelming enthusiasm, while a testament to the country’s love for the beautiful game, has posed significant logistical challenges.
During Kenya’s recent match against Morocco, over 1,000 ticketless fans breached security barriers, overwhelming police who were instructed to avoid using force to prevent injuries.
LOC Chairman Nicholas Musonye expressed concern over the incident, describing it as a wake-up call for organizers and fans alike.
“We understand the excitement surrounding CHAN, but storming venues without tickets creates unsafe conditions for everyone,” Musonye said. “We are appealing to our youth, in particular, to cooperate with security personnel and avoid confrontations. Our goal is to create a safe, controlled environment where Kenyans can enjoy the game without incident.”
Strengthened Security Measures and Transparency
In response to the Morocco match breach, Musonye assured fans that robust security measures have been put in place for the upcoming Zambia clash.
Additional personnel will be deployed around Kasarani Stadium, and stricter access controls will be enforced to prevent unauthorized entry.
He also dismissed rumors of mass government ticket purchases, clarifying that all tickets are being distributed through transparent, official channels.
“We want to assure Kenyans that we are committed to fairness and accessibility,” Musonye said. “Every fan deserves a chance to support our team, but this must be done in an orderly manner to protect the safety of all involved.”
A Unified Call for Responsible Support
Both Mohammed and Musonye emphasized that the behavior of fans in the stands is just as crucial as the performance of the Harambee Stars on the pitch.
“Our players are giving their all to make Kenya proud,” Mohammed said. “Let us match their discipline and passion with our conduct in the stands. Together, we can show the world that Kenya is not only a footballing powerhouse but also a nation of responsible and passionate supporters.”
The officials’ appeal comes at a pivotal moment for Kenyan football. As a co-host of CHAN 2025, Kenya has a unique opportunity to showcase its organizational capabilities and cement its status as a leading football destination in Africa.
However, maintaining order and adhering to CAF’s stringent regulations are critical to securing future hosting rights for high-profile tournaments, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will also co-host.
Looking Ahead to a Thrilling Encounter
The upcoming match against Zambia promises to be a thrilling chapter in Kenya’s CHAN campaign. The Harambee Stars, buoyed by their home crowd, are determined to secure a vital win to bolster their chances of advancing to the knockout stages.
With the nation rallying behind them, the team is counting on fans to create an electrifying yet orderly atmosphere at Kasarani.
As the countdown to Sunday’s kick-off continues, Mohammed and Musonye’s message is clear: let passion fuel support, but let discipline guide actions.
By working together, fans, organizers, and security forces can ensure that the CHAN 2024 experience in Kenya is remembered for all the right reasons—on and off the pitch.
For ticketing information and updates on the CHAN 2025 tournament, fans are encouraged to visit the official FKF website or authorized ticketing platforms. Let’s rally behind the Harambee Stars and make Kenya proud!
Share This Post
