CHAN 2024: Why CAF Is Banning Vuvuzelas, 'Isukuti' and More from Stadiums

Fans intending to watch the African Nations Championships (CHAN) will not be allowed to carry vuvuzelas, megaphones, sealed bottles, takeaway meals, or even political banners into stadiums when the tournament kicks off on August 3rd.

The Local Organising Committee (LOC), in collaboration with CAF’s Safety & Security Department, has rolled out a comprehensive list of prohibited items ahead of the eagerly awaited tournament.

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The ban extends to a range of everyday items, including all bottles (even disposable ones), cups, cans, large bags, suitcases, and cooler boxes.

Powdery substances such as flour or any fine material that can cause irritation are also on the no-entry list. Animals, except certified assistance dogs, will similarly be restricted from entering the stadium premises.

At the center of this move is the desire to maintain a safe, inclusive, and family-friendly atmosphere.

"Our objective is to foster a secure and exciting environment where everyone can enjoy the beautiful game," a source from the LOC’s Safety & Security Department told Pulse Sports.

"We've studied crowd management patterns and taken lessons from past tournaments to ensure CHAN 2024 sets a gold standard for fan safety and behavior."

The timing of this announcement is critical, coming just days before Harambee Stars begin their CHAN 2024 campaign.

Those arriving at stadiums with any of the banned items will be denied entry or asked to dispose of them at security checkpoints.

One of the most debated exclusions has been noise-making devices—most notably the iconic vuvuzela, which gained global recognition during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

CAF’s stance is clear: these items, while festive, often contribute to hearing discomfort, drown out important announcements, and can cause undue distress among sensitive attendees, including children and the elderly.

“In recent years, we've seen these devices become sources of distraction and, in some cases, safety hazards,” said the LOC spokesperson.

“In a packed stadium, clear communication is critical—especially in emergencies. These devices can prevent that.”

CAF’s guidelines also highlight the risks associated with signal-jamming equipment, which could disrupt broadcasting signals, telecommunications, and even emergency systems. Banning such devices is seen as a necessary precaution to prevent interference with tournament operations.

Equally emphasized in the advisory is the restriction on political or offensive banners. CAF and the LOC insist that sports arenas are not platforms for divisive political or ideological expressions.

Any flags or signage targeting race, gender, religion, nationality, or personal identity will be strictly prohibited.

“We want CHAN 2024 to bring Africa together—not divide it,” noted the LOC. “We’re celebrating talent, unity, and football excellence.

Political messaging detracts from that spirit and can lead to unnecessary tensions in the stands.”

Outside food and commercially packaged takeaway are also disallowed, with exceptions made only for infants and those with medical needs.