Zambia vs Kenya: Fans to Flock to Fan Zones as Security Tightened at Kasarani

Tight security has been mounted at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, ahead of Sunday's highly anticipated Group A match between Kenya and Zambia in the ongoing 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The decisive tie, set for 15h00 local time, is expected to draw tens of thousands of fans who are eager to witness whether Harambee Stars will make the cut.

In Nairobi, the fervor has also overflowed onto the streets as fans begin thronging the six official Fan Zones set up to cater to fans without tickets.

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The mood has been charged since morning, with people flocking to the viewing grounds hours ahead of kickoff.

The Fan Zones — established at Uhuru Park in the CBD, Lucky Summer – Ngomongo near Kasarani, Dandora Stadium, Utalii – Stima Club, Jacaranda Grounds, and Kibera DC Grounds — are quickly filling up with football enthusiasts with flags, vuvuzelas, and banners.

There are already large screens and sound systems in place, transforming these centers into early matchday carnivals.

At Kasarani itself, only genuine electronic match tickets will grant fans entry.

Organizers have assured the deployment of increased personnel presence around the stadium, as well as scanning technology for ticket validation and counterfeit detection technology to curb unauthorized entry.

Security agencies have assured the public that measures have been heightened to provide safety within and around the stadium.

The fans have been told to arrive early at the stadium to avoid congestion at check points.

"Tighter security at check points, ticket scanning for authentication, and counterfeit ticket detection mechanisms will be in full use. Only those fans in possession of authentic electronic tickets will gain entry into Kasarani Stadium," the LOC stated in a joint statement with the Government of Kenya.

The LOC also noted that the Fan Zones are already relieving congestion around the stadium while still making thousands of individuals feel part of the big day.

As early as lunchtime, groups of individuals were seen waving Kenyan flags and singing team chants at the various Fan Zones. With hours to kickoff, families, youth groups, and local football fans had already taken their places to soak in the build-up.

Increased security around and in the stadiums, as well as at the Fan Zones has been made a priority to provide a safe environment for the fans," officials of the organizing committee continued to say.

With anticipation at a fever pitch, attention now turns to Kasarani where Harambee Stars will battle it out with Chipolopolo. From within the stadium to being packed into Fan Zones across Nairobi, Kenyans are streaming in, ready to cheer their team through one of the most critical matches of the tournament.