PS Omollo: Why CHAN 2024 Security Measures Go Beyond  Stadium Gates

Dr Raymond Omollo

PS Omollo: Why CHAN 2024 Security Measures Go Beyond Stadium Gates

Festus Chuma 06:14 - 01.08.2025

The PS has outlined enhanced security plans for CHAN 2024, focusing on safety, access controland emergency preparedness across venues.

Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo has revealed that CHAN 2024 will be protected by a multi-agency security plan designed to ensure safe, smooth and incident-free matches at Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums.

In a statement released on Thursday, Omollo outlined layered measures for crowd control, digital ticketing, anti-terror readiness, and emergency response, all of which are meant to guarantee public confidence and international reputation ahead of AFCON 2027.

“As tens of thousands of fans are expected in and around stadiums, the Government, through interministerial coordination, has put in place measures to ensure the safety, enjoyment and confidence for all who come to Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums,” the statement reads.

To reduce the risk of stampedes, CHAN 2024 organizers will rely on strict sectional seating protocols, well-trained stewards and layered perimeter controls to ensure fans can enter and exit in waves, not surges.

Digital Ticketing and Access Control Measures

PS Dr. Raymond Omollo during inspection of the locker room at Nyayo National Stadium ahead of CHAN 2024 preparations.

Unruly behaviour such as jumping on walls and over barriers is strictly forbidden and will be dealt with thus fans are encouraged to arrive early and follow instructions closely.

“Communication will be real-time, and fan marshals will guide movements. Tickets will be checked 1 KM away from the Stadium, for effective crowd control. We advise that you arrive early and follow the given sitting instructions," the statement add in part.

On digital security, Omollo confirmed that the shift to 100% digital ticketing is designed to eliminate fraud, and any attempts to gain entry using counterfeit tickets will not only lead to denial of access but also legal consequences.

" Security teams will be stationed to “detect and flag fake confirmations," he noted.

Counter-Terror Surveillance and Emergency Protocols

PS Dr. Raymond Omollo inspects Nyayo National Stadium ahead of CHAN 2024 security deployment.

National security services have also activated an enhanced surveillance and response protocol.

The statement notes that Kenya’s counter-terror units, intelligence services, and anti-riot forces have activated an interagency protocol, with advanced recognition, surveillance, and emergency response coordination built.

To support this, there has also been advanced training of stewards and Police for every match-day operation.

Tactical units will be deployed for rapid response to any threats, including hooliganism or pitch invasions.

“CHAN 2024 security apparatus will have tactical response units to handle disruptive scenarios swiftly, backed by legal prosecution where necessary.”

Omollo's statement further encourages fan vigilance.

“Fans are urged to stay alert, avoid distractions and report suspicious behaviour – the ministry has operationalised a CHAN Security hotline to aid in this.”

Medical Support and Transport Logistics for Fans

Emergency medical readiness is a critical part of the plan.

“Sudden illness, injuries, or crowd stress are scenarios that have been anticipated as possible medical emergencies.”

Each stadium will have “emergency medical tents, trained first responders, and ambulance support stationed at key access points.”

A joint emergency command center has been established to “coordinate rapid medical response,” and “each stadium has a well mapped out plan to the nearest medical facilities for speedy action.”

To ease traffic and improve safety, fan vehicles will be restricted.

“Buses will be at hand to transport fans into the venue. No fan cars will be allowed into the Stadium, so come ready to walk to the stadium.”

The statement also confirms that surveillance and patrol units will extend to access roads, drop-off zones, and fan transit areas to provide the needed safety for fans in and out of the stadium, especially for night games.

Lastly, on stadium safety, Omollo reaffirmed enforcement of CAF rules on banned items.

“An extensive list of prohibited items has been shared by CAF through the LOC and has been widely circulated for public information across various traditional and online media. Security personnel will strictly and thoroughly search for listed contrabands. Possession of such prohibited could lead to denied access into the stadium.

The Ministry views CHAN 2024 as a critical milestone ahead of Kenya’s AFCON 2027 hosting responsibilities and is calling on the public to support all safety measures.

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