Friday, 25 April, 2025
Kenya set to host CHAN 2025 and AFCON 2027: Sports PS tells Regional Integration Committee
Bunge Tower, Parliament Buildings, Thursday, April 24th 2025.
The Principal Secretary (PS) for the State Department for Sports, Mr. Elijah Mwangi has revealed that Kenya is on the track to host the 9th edition of the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025 and the 36th edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027.
Appearing before the Regional Integration Committee led by Hon. Irene Mayaka (nominated MP), PS Mwangi assured Members of Parliament that preparations are underway for infrastructure and stadium upgrades with key organizational structures already in place.
"The Ministry, in collaboration with the National Treasury, has already facilitated the timely payment of 13 million USD being Kenya's payment for hosting fees," said the PS.
He confirmed that Moi International Sports Centre and Nyayo National Stadium will be ready to host CHAN by 30th April 2025 and that other stadiums have been identified as training grounds for AFCON.
He also revealed that the three host countries; Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania have jointly appointed the Local Organizing Committees (LOC) and the membership of respective Committees to oversee preparations and implementation of the two games.
However, questions were raised by Committee members regarding Kenya's allocation of 2 stadias.
"Why has Kenya only been allocated 2 stadias, unlike other countries?" Posed Hon. Mayaka.
In response, the PS said that Kenya has benefitted from placement in group A which has Morocco, DRC Congo and Zambia and that the decision was influenced by strict requirements which include proximity to the International Airport, 5 Star Hotels and bigger referral hospitals.
He added that several stadiums have been identified as training grounds for both CHAN and AFCON which include Kasarani Annex, Kirigiti Stadium, and Ulinzi Sports Complex among others.
However, the PS assured the Committee of Government's commitment to the successful hosting of CHAN 2025 and AFCON 2027 and that Kenya is geared to bag enough trophies.