PS Omollo: Why Kenya Cannot Afford Mistakes During CHAN 2024

Security at CHAN 2024 under spotlight as officials address early concerns and urge fans to uphold standards during ongoing tournament.

Kenya’s commitment to hosting a safe and successful CHAN 2024 tournament took centre stage Thursday during a high-level media briefing held at Nyayo National Stadium, focusing on CAF safety and security compliance.

The session followed reports of fan-related incidents during Kenya’s opening match, which drew large crowds at Kasarani Stadium.

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Addressing members of the press, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo, emphasised that hosting CHAN is both a privilege and a national test.

“Hosting the CHAN 2024 tournament is a national honour for Kenya and a responsibility on all of us. It is a proud moment for Kenya as a world-renowned sporting nation,” said Dr Omollo.

Omollo was joined by officials from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC).

CAF Reports Early Security Lapses

Incidents included stampedes at Gate 11, unauthorised access into secure areas, and dangerous footage of a motorcycle weaving through crowds.

Fires were also lit behind Block 18, and several CAF officials and VIP guests were blocked from accessing the VVIP section, among them a South African presidential security officer.

CAF has since fined FKF a total of Sh1.95 million, citing both crowd control failures and a reported physical assault by a private security staffer on a CAF commercial officer and sponsor representative.

“As we may all be aware, CAF has set strict standards we must continuously meet regarding such tournaments. The Federation provides clear conditions on fan safety, security protocols, and crowd conduct. Any breaches – even outside the stadium – can result in consequences, including formal warnings, penalties or disqualification from future bids. As such, our conduct as fans has serious national implications,” added Dr Omollo.

CHAN Is Kenya’s Audition for AFCON 2027

Despite the rocky start, PS Omollo struck an optimistic tone, framing CHAN 2024 as a strategic opportunity for Kenya to prove itself ready for AFCON 2027, which the country hopes to co-host.

“Against this backdrop, I must say that CHAN is our audition for hosting the AFCON 2027 tournament. Every match is an opportunity to prove we can host Africa’s biggest football event. Our stadium upgrades mean little if our fans do not cooperate with the security and stewards on the ground.”

“CAF and other stakeholders are closely observing not just the games, but the overall fan experience and security management. Therefore, our success in hosting the ongoing tournament must go beyond the readiness of our facilities and our on-field performance.”

Dr Omollo encouraged fans to pair patriotism with discipline:

“Buy your ticket early, show up for the game on time, wear your desired colours, cheer your heart out and support our national team, Harambee Stars. Let us not allow a few negative incidents to ruin the efforts of thousands.”

Officials confirmed that additional security measures have since been deployed across stadiums, with joint teams from national police, private security, and CAF officials coordinating operations.

“Our success depends on collective discipline. Security teams are working tirelessly. Let us support them by cooperating and observing the protocols and directives they give us. The whole world is watching; let’s represent ourselves well,” concluded Dr Omollo.