Tag: CHAN 2025

Crowned in Kenya: The Final Chapter of CHAN 2024

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

From the first whistle in Dar es Salaam, to the charged nights in Kampala, and now to the roaring stands of Kasarani, CHAN 2024 has been a journey of unity, discipline, and African football pride.

The group stages gave us drama, passion, and unforgettable goals.

The knockout rounds brought resilience and heartbreak. And now, all roads lead to Nairobi – because on 30th August, Africa’s domestic champions will be crowned at Kasarani.

Nairobi, The Capital of African Football

For one night, the spotlight of an entire continent will beam on Nairobi.

This isn’t just another final – it’s a stage where one team will rise, one city will shine, and one continent will celebrate together.

It’s also a moment for Kenya to showcase what we’ve built.

The refurbished Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium have proven that we can host at international standards.

Behind the matchday magic has been careful planning: layered security that kept families safe, fan zones that ensured no fan was left out, and broadcast reach that brought the action into living rooms across Africa.

Soccer fans follow the fun and action during a CHAN fixture at Kasarani Stadium (Image: Files)

More Than a Tournament

But CHAN hasn’t just been about football. It has been about community inclusion.

From Baba Dogo to Githurai and Mathare, fan zones brought stadium energy closer to the people.

They weren’t just about watching the game; they became safe spaces for families, women, and children to celebrate together.

The fans – disciplined, colourful, and united – have been the real 12th Man Army. They proved that passion can be loud, but also orderly.

They showed CAF and the world that Kenya is not only ready for CHAN, but for AFCON 2027.

The Moment Awaits

On 30th August, under the Nairobi night sky, history will be written.

The final whistle at Kasarani will not just crown the champions of CHAN 2024 – it will crown Kenya as the heartbeat of African football.

Because this year, Africa is coming home.

And home is Nairobi.

Crowned in Kenya: The CHAN 2024 Journey Reaches Its Finale

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

When Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania came together to pitch for CHAN 2024, it wasn’t just about hosting football matches.

It was about reimagining what African football could look like.

That vision has been honoured. From the refurbished Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, to Benjamin Mkapa in Dar es Salaam and Nelson Mandela in Kampala, East Africa has breathed new life into stadiums that are now hosting unforgettable moments.

This cross-border collaboration has been more than an experiment – it has been a resounding success.

Together, the region proved it can unite, organise, and deliver at world-class level.

Fans at the Heart of It All

If there’s one story that has shone through this tournament, it’s the fans.

From the deafening roar at Kasarani, to the colourful fan zones in Baba Dogo, Githurai, and Mathare, supporters have been the true 12th Man.

They didn’t just cheer; they showed discipline, passion, and pride, proving that celebration and order can live side by side.

For Kenya, this has been about more than hosting games – it’s been about reshaping football culture.

A culture where fans aren’t just spectators, but central to the story.

Harambee Stars provisional squad (Image: Files)

The Road to the Finals

Every team that stepped onto the pitch carried more than tactics – they carried the dreams of millions.

From debutant Kenya writing history by reaching the knockouts, to Uganda and Tanzania lighting up their home crowds, and the continental giants bringing their power to the mix, the journey has been fierce and emotional.

Every match has been a drumroll leading to this moment: the grand crescendo at Kasarani on 30th August.

Now only two sides remain, walking into the stadium for the chance to lift the crown of CHAN.

Kenya’s Organising Triumph

Away from the pitch, Kenya has shown what meticulous planning can achieve.

From layered security that made match days safe for families, to well-organised fan zones that gave every supporter a seat in the celebration, to broadcast deals that brought CHAN into homes across the nation – this has been a tournament executed with excellence.

Kenya is no longer just in the football conversation.

Kenya is setting the standard for how Africa can host, celebrate, and commercialise football.

The Finale: Africa Comes Home

Now, the road ends where it all began – in Kenya.

On the night of 30th August at Kasarani, the trophy will rise under the Nairobi sky, marking not just the end of a tournament, but the start of a new legacy.

CHAN 2024 has been more than football. It has been Africa’s homecoming – and Kenya its crowning stage.

Fans Rejoice as CHAN Quarter Final Fanzone Returns to Nairobi

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

The streets of Nairobi are buzzing again – and for good reason.

As the Harambee Stars prepare to clash with Madagascar in the CHAN 2024 quarterfinals, fans have been handed another chance to experience the thrill live from the comfort of their own neighborhoods.

Organizers have confirmed that fan zones will once again light up community grounds across the city, including the iconic Baba Dogo Grounds, where football passion runs deep.

For fans who missed out on stadium tickets, this is the next best thing – giant screens, booming chants, entertainment, and safe, family-friendly spaces that carry the same energy you’d feel at Kasarani.

This will be the second round of fan zone screenings, following the overwhelming turnout in the group stages.

The concept has been more than a stopgap for ticket shortages – it has evolved into a celebration of community, football culture, and the unifying power of sport.

Harambee Stars fans catch the action on a giant screen in Nairobi CBD (Image: Files)

The Baba Dogo Allure

The choice of Baba Dogo as a fan zone host isn’t just logistical, it’s symbolic.

Long before it became a CHAN fan village, Baba Dogo Grounds was – and still is – a cradle of stars.

This is the pitch where talents like Harambee Stars’ breakout forward Austin Odhiambo cut their teeth, and where legends like McDonald Mariga once honed their grit.

The community fought hard to protect this space from encroaching developers, and President Ruto’s recent promise to upgrade it into a modern football facility has cemented its role as a nursery of Kenyan football.

Hosting the fan zone here is a nod to that heritage – a reminder that football belongs to the people, and its future is rooted in community grounds.

Voices from the Community

Local coaches and medics, who have watched both the players and the grounds grow, couldn’t hide their excitement:

“This is about more than football. It’s about pride, unity, and giving young players the inspiration to dream bigger,” said Joab Ouma, Coach at Lucky Summer.

“Baba Dogo is home for many of us. Seeing it celebrated this way tells every child here that their pitch matters,” added Steven Zakayo, Coach: Baba Dogo.

For others, safety remains key.

“We’ve set up secure areas for women and children. It’s not just about watching the game, it’s about families feeling welcome and safe,” emphasized Franklin Osama, Medic: Baba Dogo.

The Bigger Picture

The fan zones are proof that football is not just played in stadiums – it lives in our estates, our neighborhoods, and our communities.

They allow thousands who can’t make it to Kasarani to still stand shoulder-to-shoulder, flags raised, and voices joined in one chant: “Stars, Stars, Stars!”

So this Sunday, whether you’re in Baba Dogo, Lucky Summer, or any of the other fan zones, know this – you are part of the story.

You are part of the 12th man army that carries the Harambee Stars forward.

Because at the end of the day, football is about all of us.

Protect The Game – Millionaires Powered by the 12th Man

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

Kenya’s journey at CHAN has shown that protecting the game is about more than what happens on the pitch – it is about how we, as fans, carry ourselves as hosts.

Progressively, Kenyans have heeded the call of discipline and unity, proving that Protect The Game was not just a slogan but a movement.

By showing passion without chaos, energy without violence, and pride without disruption, we safeguarded the dream of keeping this tournament in Kenya and strengthened our bid for AFCON 2027.

That discipline has carried the Harambee Stars into the quarter-finals, where the rewards are now as real as the dream itself.

The team has already earned 5.5 million shillings in prize money, and with the President’s pledge of 1 million shillings and a two-bedroom affordable housing unit for each player should they progress to the semis, the stakes have never been higher.

These boys, once grinding on dusty pitches in the grassroots, now stand on the verge of millionaire status.

They are not just chasing goals – they are chasing transformation.

And behind every step of their journey is the heartbeat of the 12th Man Army. But for that heartbeat to be felt, it must be channeled in the right way.

Stadiums have their limits, as per CAF regulations. Disruption risks our reputation.

That is why the true power of the 12th Man is being called to the Harambee Stars Villages – vibrant fan zones where the game comes alive just as loudly, just as proudly, and just as passionately.

Harambee Stars fans chill and follow the action at Kasarani Stadium during the Kenya Vs Zambia fixture (Image: Files)

With giant screens, DJs, MCs, local players and electrifying energy, the Villages are where all Kenyans can gather safely, celebrate freely, and lift the team higher without straining the stadium gates.

Fan zones are women and children safe zones and they are encouraged to come and take part in the viewing experience without fear of provocation or harassment.

This is the spirit that ties it all together. To protect the game is to protect our future. To gather in the Villages is to show the world that Kenya’s passion is matched by discipline.

And to roar as one is to power our players into millionaires, transforming their lives and inspiring a generation.

The Harambee Stars are ready, the promise is within reach, and the 12th Man Army must rise once again.

Together, we protect the game.

Together, we create millionaires. Together, we carry Kenya forward.

The Cradle of Stars: The Magic of Baba Dogo Grounds

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

In the heart of Nairobi’s Baba Dogo estate lies more than just a dusty football pitch.

It is a cradle of dreams, a proving ground where raw talent has battled against the odds to rise from humble beginnings to the continental stage.

For decades, this ground has been a silent witness to the making of stars, carrying the spirit of resilience and the roar of ambition.

Iconic Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo hailed as a Baba Dogo protege (Image: Files)

But for years, Baba Dogo Grounds has lived under threat. Developers eyed it, eager to claim the community’s lifeline.

The turning point came in July, during the launch of the Climate Worx: Rehabilitating the Nairobi River Programme, when President William Ruto ordered the withdrawal of police officers guarding the contested site.

His directive affirmed that the land belonged to the community – a victory for Nairobi’s shrinking public playfields and the youth who depend on them.

Barely a month later, the matter resurfaced in a poignant moment.

After Harambee Stars’ final CHAN 2024 group stage clash against Zambia at Kasarani, President Ruto visited the dressing room.

There, forward Austin Odhiambo – one of the breakout stars of the tournament and a son of Baba Dogo – made an emotional plea for the grounds to remain in the hands of the people.

His words echoed the dreams of countless young players who had laced up their first boots on that very soil.

Visibly moved, Ruto pledged to personally finance the construction and renovation of Baba Dogo Grounds, promising to transform it into a modern football facility.

“That is your pitch, and I will make sure it is done,” he assured.

It was a promise not only to preserve land but to secure the grassroots pipeline of Kenyan football.

Baba Dogo is no stranger to legacy.

Kenyan internationals Wanyama and Mariga during a past fixture (Image: Files)

Beyond Odhiambo, the pitch is tied to the journey of Harambee Stars legend and current FKF Vice Chair McDonald Mariga, whose own rise reflects the grit, hunger, and discipline instilled on such community fields.

Often dismissed for its dusty look, Baba Dogo has proven to be a birthplace of champions.

It embodies the essence of Kenyan football – grassroots that grow into glory.

By protecting and upgrading it, Kenya is honoring those who came before and safeguarding the dreams of those yet to come.

That is why it was no coincidence that the inaugural Harambee Stars Village Fan Zone was hosted at Baba Dogo.

Symbolism mattered: the same pitch that birthed legends also became the gathering point where fans celebrated, united, and protected the game.

Because every champion begins somewhere. And for Kenya’s next generation of football heroes, that somewhere is Baba Dogo Grounds.

Harambee Stars Cruise into Quarters, Calls for Fan Sobriety Ahead of Sunday Fixture

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

In a twist worthy of football folklore, the Harambee Stars have secured a spot in the CHAN 2024 quarterfinals – without kicking a ball.

Group A’s other results fell in Kenya’s favour, ensuring their early passage to the knockout stages before their next fixture.

It’s a reminder: in this game, sometimes the clearest victories happen off the pitch.

But this milestone comes with a warning­ – a call for restraint, responsibility, and respect

The Significance

Kenya’s qualification is a testament to the team’s strong start – but it also heightens expectations.

The euphoria of progression must not cloud our judgment.

Recent fan unrest and safety breaches during match days have triggered sanctions from CAF, including fines totalling Ksh12.8 million (about $98,500).

CAF’s disciplinary board has explicitly stated that continued disruptions could risk Kenya’s hosting rights for the quarterfinal matches – and even endanger future opportunities, including AFCON 2027.

A Call for Fan Sobriety

To our fans, across stands and streets:

  • Celebrate with passion – but stay lawful.
  • Respect ticketing controls and avoid gate-crashing.
  • Keep commemorative displays vibrant – not chaotic.

Support team and security staff – disorder dims our collective pride.

When the stadium functions smoothly, fan voices can rise louder and longer in harmony – with no penalties brewing behind the scenes.

Reflecting on What’s at Stake

Continued breaches may see Kenya stripped of home ties for upcoming rounds.

It could weaken Kenya’s reputation as a capable and safe host – jeopardizing AFCON 2027 aspirations.

Most importantly, it disrupts the spirit of unity and respect that football thrives on.

A Kenyan fan dances in the stands in solidarity with Harambee Stars (Image: Facebook)

The Final Whistle

Yes, we’ve made it to the quarters.

But this campaign isn’t over – it’s only just gaining momentum.

Let’s ensure that our story moving forward is one of celebration, safety, and world-class conduct.

Because the Stars’ path to history doesn’t end at the quarterfinals – it begins there.

Fans, this is your moment.

Let’s protect the magic.

Six Fan Zones in Nairobi to Catch the CHAN Action Without a Ticket

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

The CHAN 2025 fever is real – and Kenya is buzzing!

Tickets for matches have been selling out faster than a 90th-minute counterattack.

That’s a sign of something beautiful: football is alive, the fans are passionate, and Africa’s coming home in style.

But, if you’ve been refreshing ticket pages in vain or found yourself staring at a “sold out” notice, here’s the good news:

You can still be part of the tournament magic without stepping inside the stadium.

FKF Vice-president McDonald Mariga interacts with the Kenyan team ahead of the Zambia clash on Sunday (Image: Files)

Why the Rush on Tickets?

It’s simple – CHAN 2025 is the hottest ticket in town.

This is the first time in decades that Africa’s homegrown football talent is showcased right here in Nairobi, and everyone wants to be part of it.

With limited stadium capacity and high demand, seats vanish quickly.

It’s not exclusion; it’s proof that our football is pulling crowds like never before.

Your CHAN Experience, Without a Ticket

  • Watch on Official Broadcasts

Stay in the loop by tuning in to CAF’s official broadcast partners.

Every pass, goal, and celebration will be coming to your screen in HD.

No need for sketchy streams – you get the full experience with expert commentary and replays.

  • Join the Fan Zones

The government has announced six fan zones across Nairobi for the Kenya-Zambia CHAN 2024 match happening on August 17th, 2025!

Come cheer on Harambee Stars with fellow supporters at:

  • Uhuru Park
  • Lucky Summer (Behind Kasarani Stadium)
  • Dandora Stadium
  • Utalii (Stima Club)
  • Jacaranda Grounds
  • Kibera DC Grounds

Let’s show our support!

  • Connect Online

Follow the action through CAF and FKF’s social media pages, where match highlights, behind-the-scenes moments, and player interviews drop in real-time.

Join in by posting your own fan photos and using official hashtags like #CHAN2025 and #AfricaIsComingHome.

  • Host a Watch Party

Turn your home or local joint into CHAN central.

Get friends, snacks, jerseys, and vuvuzelas (okay, maybe not the vuvuzelas), and recreate that stadium vibe from your living room.

Harambee Stars fan dominates the stands draped in the team’s jersey (Image: Files)

In a Nutshell ….

Whether you’re in the stadium or cheering from a fan zone, you’re part of the same story.

Your voice, your pride, and your energy are what make CHAN 2025 a success.

This united spirit is what CAF notices – the same spirit that strengthens our AFCON 2027 dream.

One Game, One Nation, One Africa.

Football has always been about more than just the 90 minutes on the pitch.

It’s about the streets filled with cheering fans, the flags on car windows, the songs in the air.

Even if you didn’t get a ticket, you are still the 12th Man – and the world is watching.

Africa is Coming Home: Let’s Show Up and Protect the Game!

Posted on by Kibaki Muthamia

As we enjoy sights and surprises in CHAN 2025, Kenya is in the spotlight of the entire continent.

For the first time in decades, Africa’s football heartbeat is pounding right here in our backyard.

The question is: How will Kenya respond?

We’ve been the 12th Man Army, roaring our team forward.

Now, it’s time to evolve – to become World Class Fans.

Because the truth is, protecting the game is about more than just cheering; it’s about ensuring every matchday runs with the safety, order, and excellence worthy of the CAF badge.

A Kenyan fan dances in the stands in solidarity with Harambee Stars (Image: Facebook)

What “Protect the Game” Really Means

Most fans are doing their part. They follow the rules, arrive early, and keep the stadium atmosphere electric.

But recent challenges – from ticketing hiccups to entry congestion – have shown where we can improve.

Strengthened security, crystal-clear communication, and swift operational fixes are essential if we are to meet CAF’s standards and safeguard our reputation.

This is bigger than one tournament.

AFCON 2027 is coming, and how we host CHAN 2025 will echo in CAF’s decision-making rooms for years to come.

A safe, orderly, and inclusive fan experience tells the world: Kenya is a trusted host for Africa’s biggest football moments.

Shared Responsibility – From Pitch to Stands

Security and order aren’t just a government job.

They’re a team effort between FKF, CAF, the media, security agencies, ticketing partners, and fans themselves.

That means:

  • Follow stadium rules.
  • Know the prohibited items list before leaving home.
  • Arrive early to ease entry queues.
  • Listen to official communications and matchday updates.

When everyone plays their part, we create a stadium experience that’s smooth, safe, and unforgettable.

Football Unites Us

CHAN 2025 is more than a football competition.

It’s a celebration of African unity, diversity, and pride.

Look around the stands – you’ll see loyal grassroots fans who’ve kept Kenyan football alive for decades, first-time attendees tasting stadium magic, families bonding over the game, and supporters from across the continent sharing one passion.

This is our football culture, alive and thriving. And we are its custodians.

The Legacy We Leave

Let CHAN 2025 be remembered not just for the goals scored, but for how we hosted — with warmth, discipline, and world-class standards.

Because Africa is home, and home is where we show our best.