Nairobi, Kenya – August 3, 2025 – The Harambee Stars delivered a historic performance in their African Nations Championship (CHAN) debut, defeating two-time champions DR Congo 1-0 at a packed Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The victory, sealed by a late first-half goal from Odhiambo, not only ignited national pride but also triggered a KSh1 million payout for each player and technical staff member, as pledged by President William Ruto.
The match was a testament to Kenya’s resilience against a formidable opponent. Despite DR Congo’s early dominance in possession, the Stars, under new head coach Benni McCarthy, maintained a disciplined defensive structure.
The breakthrough came in the 45+2nd minute when David Sakwa’s precise pass found Odhiambo, who calmly slotted a left-footed shot past DR Congo’s goalkeeper Brudel Efonge.
The goal sent the Kasarani crowd into a frenzy, marking a symbolic moment for a Kenyan side making its CHAN finals debut against one of the tournament’s giants.
DR Congo, led by coach Otis Ngoma, pushed hard for an equalizer in the second half, dominating set-pieces and testing Kenya’s defense with headers from Jonathan Mokonzi and Kitambala.
However, goalkeeper Byrne Omondi proved impenetrable, making a crucial save in the 59th minute to deny Heltone Kayembe’s powerful strike.
Defenders Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija stood tall, repelling a late barrage of Congolese corners to secure a clean sheet.
President Ruto and Raila Odinga and Billionaire CAF President Patrice Motsepe leads the fans in giving the Harambee Stars a standing ovation after winning the game against DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium
President Ruto’s pre-match promise of KSh1 million per player for a win and KSh500,000 for a draw galvanized the squad.
“We will do our utmost best for everybody to be proud of being Kenyan,” McCarthy said after Ruto’s morale-boosting visit on August 2.
The financial incentives, coupled with the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) substantial prize pool, have raised the stakes for the tournament co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The victory places Kenya in a strong position in challenging Group A, alongside Morocco, Zambia, and Angola. Captain Aboud Omar, who led by example, emphasized team unity: “This win is for Kenya. The President’s support gave us confidence, and we’ll keep pushing.”
As fans celebrate this historic victory, the Stars’ next challenge is to maintain momentum in what many are calling the “Group of Death.”
The question now looms: can this victory, fueled by financial incentives and passionate home support, propel Kenya to CHAN glory?
President William Ruto has unveiled a comprehensive financial incentive package for Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars, as they prepare for their debut in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025.
During a visit to the team’s training camp at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Annex, on July 16, 2025, Ruto unveiled a comprehensive bonus structure that includes KSh 1 million for each player per victory and KSh 500,000 per draw, alongside team bonuses of KSh 60 million for reaching the quarterfinals, KSh 70 million for the semifinals, and KSh 600 million if they win the tournament.
The announcement comes as Kenya, alongside co-hosts Uganda and Tanzania, prepares to host the biennial tournament from August 2-30, 2025. The Harambee Stars face a challenging Group A draw, competing against two-time champions Morocco, DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia in their first-ever CHAN appearance.
“I have come here as the President of Kenya to say that we trust and believe in you. You represent the hopes and dreams of over 55 million Kenyans,” Ruto told the players and coaching staff led by head coach Benni McCarthy.
“Win this tournament, and I will ensure a KSh 600 million bonus for the team. Each victory will earn every player KSh 1 million, while draws will bring KSh 500,000 per player. Reach the quarterfinals and the team gets KSh 60 million, make it to the semifinals for KSh 70 million.”
President William Ruto juggles the ball during a visit to the Harambee Stars’ training camp.
The presidential pledge builds on earlier commitments made during the same visit.
Ruto donated KSh 5 million to the team as immediate support, delivered that evening through Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya.
This was supplemented by KSh 500,000 from Mvurya and KSh 200,000 from Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed to boost team morale entering residential training.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a record KSh 1.34 billion prize pool for CHAN 2025, representing a 32% increase from the 2023 edition.
Even a last-place finish in their group would guarantee the Harambee Stars KSh 25.8 million, while tournament champions will receive KSh 452.2 million.
Coach Benni McCarthy, former Manchester United assistant coach, recently made strategic squad adjustments ahead of the opening match against DR Congo on August 3 at Kasarani.
He brought in Police FC midfielder Marvin Nabwire, Bandari goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, Shabana FC’s Brian Michira, Tusker FC’s Chrispin Errambo, and Sofapaka forward Edward Omondi to replace players ruled out due to injuries or contract ineligibility.
Former Harambee Stars coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee emphasized the tournament’s significance for Kenya’s domestic league. “This is where we gauge how strong our FKF Premier League is. These players have a chance to showcase their talent and earn consideration for bigger international assignments, like AFCON 2027,” Mulee said.
The tournament offers local talent a platform to attract scouts from top African and European clubs, raising the stakes for the Stars beyond financial incentives.
Despite the presidential support, the FKF faces significant financial challenges, including over KSh 600 million in debts and ongoing legal disputes. Former coach Engin Firat recently highlighted issues with unpaid salaries and logistical shortcomings that could affect team preparations.
“This is not just about pride; it’s about investing in our players and giving them a reason to dream big,” said Sports CS Mvurya.
As Kenya prepares to host the CHAN final, Ruto’s bold promises and national support signal high expectations for the Harambee Stars. With the weight of a nation’s aspirations and the prospect of historic financial rewards, the team is positioned to chase both glory and a significant payday in their inaugural CHAN appearance.
Football fans heading to stadiums for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) should take note: the usual match-day fanfare will be heavily restricted this time around.
The tournament’s Local Safety and Security Department has released an extensive list of items that will not be allowed inside venues across the three host nations—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda as part of enhanced security protocols. The move comes just a day before the highly anticipated kickoff match at Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
Among the most striking bans are those on whistles, vuvuzelas, drums, and megaphones—items traditionally synonymous with African football celebrations. Even flags and banners face scrutiny, especially if they carry political, religious, gender, racial, or personal identity messages.
“We urge all fans to comply with stadium rules and maintain calm. Let us show up in large numbers to support the Harambee Stars and ensure a safe tournament,” the security department said in a public advisory issued this week.
Fans will also not be allowed to bring outside food or drink unless required for medical reasons or for infants. Powdery substances such as flour and baking powder have also made it onto the prohibited list.
All types of drink containers—cups, bottles, cans, and sealed packages are strictly banned.
Other restricted items include:
•Cooler boxes, folding chairs, and suitcases
•Animals, with the only exception being certified service dogs
•Electronic or telecom equipment that can disrupt broadcasts or tech systems
•Weapons and dangerous materials, including firearms, explosives, chemicals, flammable items, breakable materials, and helmets
The safety protocols will be enforced at all CHAN 2024 stadiums, including Kenya’s Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani; Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium; and Mandela National Stadium in Uganda.
The first match on Kenyan soil will see the Harambee Stars face off against the Democratic Republic of Congo at 3 p.m. on Sunday, August 3, at Kasarani. The grand finale is scheduled for Saturday, August 30, also at Kasarani.
CHAN 2024 is being viewed as a major dress rehearsal for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the East African trio is set to co-host.
Fans are being urged to arrive early, travel light, and prioritize safety as the region gears up to deliver one of the most secure and fan-friendly tournaments in recent memory.
Kenya’s preparations for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) have been dealt a major blow following the withdrawal of influential midfielder Mohammed Bajaber from the squad.
Bajaber, 23, has been ruled out of the continental tournament after sealing a high-profile move to Tanzanian giants Simba SC, disqualifying him from participating in CHAN, which is restricted to players plying their trade in their home domestic leagues.
The attacking midfielder, who played a starring role in Kenya Police FC’s maiden Premier League triumph last season, is now set to join Simba’s pre-season tour in Egypt after penning a two-year contract with the Tanzanian heavyweights. Reports indicate Simba beat stiff competition from Azam FC in a multi-million-shilling deal to land the highly-rated playmaker.
His exit comes at a critical time for Harambee Stars, just five days before their crunch Group B opener against tournament favourites DR Congo, scheduled for August 3.
In a swift response to the shock development, Head Coach Benni McCarthy has called up AFC Leopards midfielder Brian Michira as a late replacement, as he looks to quickly patch up his increasingly depleted squad.
Growing Selection Crisis for McCarthy
Bajaber’s departure is the latest setback for McCarthy, who is already grappling with a string of player exits. Earlier this month, key forwards Emmanuel Osoro and Moses Shummah were also ruled out of CHAN duty after completing transfers to Zambian Premier League sides, further weakening Kenya’s attacking options.
Speaking to journalists earlier this month, McCarthy had strongly defended his decision to keep Bajaber in the squad despite ongoing fitness concerns.
“Bajaber got injured before we went to Morocco. My decision is that he is a good, young player who broke the system and quickly developed into a powerhouse,” said the former South Africa international on July 16. “It would be silly of me to let him train every day and lose him to injury days before CHAN, so we gave him every possibility to be available.”
McCarthy’s gamble, however, has been trumped by Bajaber’s sudden transfer, forcing a reshuffle in midfield just days before Kenya’s biggest continental test in years.
Rising Star Takes Big Step
Bajaber’s meteoric rise has been one of the standout stories in Kenyan football. The midfield dynamo was instrumental in Kenya Police FC’s title-winning campaign in 2023/24 and earned his first national team cap in March, scoring on debut against The Gambia in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
His move to Simba SC marks a significant step in his career, as he joins a club with a rich continental pedigree and regular CAF Champions League appearances.
While his departure is a loss for the CHAN-bound Harambee Stars, it underscores the growing appeal of Kenyan talent in the region—and the delicate balancing act national team coaches face when domestic stars attract foreign suitors.
With Group B fixtures looming and DR Congo, Libya, and Niger waiting, all eyes will now be on how McCarthy’s patched-up squad responds to adversity on the continental stage.
Kenya’s national team assured of substantial earnings as CAF announces record prize money for delayed tournament
Kenya’s Harambee Stars are set to earn a minimum of KSh 25.8 million from the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), even if they finish last in their group, following the Confederation of African Football’s announcement of record prize money for the delayed tournament.
The financial guarantee comes as part of CAF’s unprecedented KSh 1.34 billion total prize pool for CHAN 2024, representing a significant 32% increase from the KSh 1.02 billion distributed during the 2023 edition in Algeria. This substantial boost reflects the tournament’s growing stature and CAF’s commitment to rewarding participating nations.
Harambee Stars, drawn in Group A alongside four other teams, are assured of the minimum payout regardless of their performance. The tournament’s structure guarantees that even the bottom-placed teams in the five-team groups (A, B, and C) will each receive KSh 25.8 million ($200,000), with fourth-placed teams in these groups earning the same amount.
However, the financial incentives increase dramatically for teams that advance. Third-placed finishers in each group will pocket KSh 38.7 million ($300,000), while teams reaching the quarter-finals are guaranteed KSh 58.1 million ($450,000) even if they lose at that stage.
The tournament winners will claim an impressive KSh 452.2 million ($3.5 million), marking a substantial 75% increase from the KSh 258.4 million that Senegal received for winning the 2023 edition. The runners-up will earn KSh 155 million ($1.2 million), while third and fourth-placed teams will collect KSh 90.4 million ($700,000) and KSh 77.5 million ($600,000) respectively.
This prize structure creates a clear financial incentive for teams to progress as far as possible, with each stage offering significantly higher rewards.
The tournament, originally scheduled for 2024 but postponed, will now take place from August 2-30, 2025, across three East African nations. Tanzania will host the opening match at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Uganda will stage the third-place playoff at Mandela Stadium in Kampala, while Kenya will host the final at a venue yet to be confirmed.
This co-hosting arrangement, operating under the “Pamoja” (Together) banner, represents a significant opportunity for the region to showcase its footballing infrastructure and hospitality on the continental stage.
For Kenya, the guaranteed minimum earnings of KSh 25.8 million provide a crucial financial foundation for the team’s preparations and future development programs. The money will likely support player allowances, technical staff compensation, and contribute to the broader development of domestic football.
The tournament exclusively features players from domestic leagues, making it particularly significant for countries looking to develop their home-based talent. For Kenya, strong performance could not only boost earnings but also raise the profile of the Kenyan Premier League and its players.
With the tournament approaching, Kenya’s technical team under head coach Benni McCarthy has been fine-tuning preparations. The coach recently named his final 25-man squad, with several players having opportunities to prove themselves on the continental stage.
The financial guarantees provide additional motivation for the team, knowing that even participation alone will result in substantial earnings, while advancement through the tournament stages could deliver increasingly significant financial rewards.
As CHAN 2024 approaches, Harambee Stars face the dual challenge of representing their nation with pride while maximizing the financial benefits that strong performance could bring to Kenyan football’s development.
The 2024 African Nations Championship will run from August 2-30, 2025, across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, featuring 19 qualified nations competing for continental glory and record prize money.
NAIROBI, Kenya – July 24, 2025 – Football fever is sweeping East Africa as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania prepare to co-host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) from August 2-30, 2025. With the tournament just days away, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has officially launched ticket sales, offering fans an affordable and seamless way to experience the action live.
Where and How to Buy Tickets
Ticket sales for CHAN 2024 are now live through the official online platform at chan.mookh.com. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the LOC have implemented an exclusively online ticketing system to ensure convenience and accessibility for supporters across the region.
“Tickets are available through chan.mookh.com, and we urge fans to act quickly to secure their seats,” said Nicholas Musonye, chairman of the CHAN LOC. “This is a historic moment for East African football, and we want our stadiums filled with passionate supporters.”
Sales officially began at midnight on July 23, with fans encouraged to visit the Mookh website to purchase tickets starting at just Ksh 200.
Affordable Pricing Structure
The LOC has prioritized affordability to ensure fans from all backgrounds can attend CHAN 2024. Ticket prices are uniform across the three host nations and structured in three tiers:
Regular (Terrace) Tickets: Ksh 200
VIP Tickets: Ksh 500
VVIP Tickets: Ksh 1,000
Each ticket is valid for a single match, meaning fans must purchase separate tickets for each game they wish to attend.
This pricing model mirrors or undercuts the cost of attending local FKF Premier League matches, making CHAN 2024 one of the most accessible international tournaments in recent memory.
“We’ve set the prices low because we want Kenyans to come in large numbers and enjoy the game,” Musonye emphasized. “This is a rare opportunity to host Africa in our region, and we want to create an electric atmosphere.”
Ticket Purchase Process
Inside the newly refurbished Kasarani Stadium.
To buy tickets, fans should follow these steps:
Visit the Official Platform: Log on to chan.mookh.com
Select Your Match: Choose from available fixtures, including all Harambee Stars games at Moi International Sports Centre (Kasarani) and other key matches at Nyayo National Stadium
Choose Your Ticket Tier: Select from regular, VIP, or VVIP options based on preference and budget
Complete Payment: Process transactions securely online through available payment options
Receive Your E-Ticket: Digital tickets are valid for one match only
Fans are advised to purchase tickets only through official channels to avoid fraudulent sellers. The LOC has warned that tickets bought from unauthorized vendors may be deemed invalid at stadium entry points.
Tournament Venues and Schedule
Kenya will host group stage matches at the Moi International Sports Centre (Kasarani) and Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
Harambee Stars, placed in Group A alongside Morocco, Angola, DR Congo, and Zambia, will kick off their campaign against DR Congo on August 3 at Kasarani.
The tournament’s grand finale on August 30 will take place at Kasarani, giving Kenyan fans the opportunity to witness the crowning of the 2024 CHAN champions.
Tanzania’s matches will be held at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam and Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, while Uganda’s Mandela National Stadium (Namboole) in Kampala will host Group C games and the third-place playoff.
Security and Safety Measures
Kasarani Stadium.
To ensure a smooth and safe experience, the Kenyan government has implemented comprehensive security measures across all venues, hotels, and transport hubs.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed that 102 cameras at Kasarani will be monitored 24/7, with similar measures at Nyayo Stadium and other facilities.
Kenya’s decision to waive visa requirements for many African countries is expected to boost regional attendance, with thorough screening processes in place to maintain security standards.
“We want fans to feel safe and welcomed as they cheer on their teams,” said Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya. “Our online ticketing system and security measures are designed to make CHAN 2024 a memorable experience for everyone.”
A Historic Tournament
CHAN 2024 marks the first time Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania will co-host the tournament, serving as preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. With 19 teams competing and a significant prize pool at stake, the tournament promises to showcase Africa’s homegrown talent.
Fans are urged to secure their tickets promptly through chan.mookh.com and follow official CAF and Football Kenya Federation (FKF) channels for the latest updates.
This is an opportunity to be part of a historic celebration of African football and join the PAMOJA spirit of unity.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has firmly dismissed reports of internal strife within the national team’s camp, insisting he remains in complete control as Kenya prepares for the upcoming CHAN tournament.
Speaking to journalists at Nyayo National Stadium during the team’s first training session after their controversial withdrawal from the Cecafa Four Nations tournament in Tanzania, the 48-year-old South African tactician addressed swirling rumors that have dominated football circles in recent weeks.
The speculation began when several football pundits took to social media claiming that McCarthy had been forced to eject players who had arrived at the training camp without his invitation or approval.
These allegations painted a picture of discord and questioned the coach’s authority over team selection.
However, McCarthy was quick to challenge his critics, demanding concrete evidence to support their claims.
“Kindly give me names and back it up with facts so that I know who came to my squad without my knowledge,” he stated emphatically.
“Every player has been here for two weeks except Felix Oluoch, who impressed when we played a combined team and was a standout player.”
The coach went on to explain that Oluoch’s late inclusion was purely merit-based, with the technical team convinced by his performance in a friendly match.
“As a technical team, what Oluoch showed in the friendly game was enough to convince us that he can join the team. I’m very professional, and if there is anybody claiming so, let him back it up with evidence. I’m fully in charge of this squad,” McCarthy added with conviction.
The timing of these allegations has raised eyebrows, particularly following Kenya’s abrupt departure from the pre-CHAN tournament in Arusha.
McCarthy clarified that the decision to withdraw was purely based on player welfare and safety concerns.
“The conditions were not favourable to us, we could have got more injuries and for safety reasons, the wellbeing of the players, we decided not to play and so came back,” he explained.
The coach revealed that teams were not permitted to train on the main pitch, and the available training facilities were substandard.
Rather than risk player injuries on poor surfaces, the technical team made the difficult decision to prioritize long-term preparation over short-term competition.
Despite the controversy, McCarthy remains focused on the task ahead. With 28 players currently in camp, he expressed satisfaction with the team’s fitness levels and preparation.
“We are working on fitness and mass training sessions where my players can play for 90 and even extra time. I’m pleased with everything on fitness, and we are hitting over 500km in distance covered so far,” he noted.
The coach also confirmed that he has been monitoring international player Masoud Juma, a former Kariobangi Sharks player who has returned to Kenya and signed with a local club.
“I have known him since we were at an international camp, and I signed him to play in the South African league. I have spoken to him, I know his quality, he has a lot of experience,” McCarthy revealed, though he remained coy about which Kenyan club Juma had joined.
With Kenya Police forward Mohamed Bajabeer expected to rejoin the squad after recovering from injury, McCarthy is set to announce his final 23-man squad by the end of the week.
The team faces a challenging group stage draw, having been placed alongside two-time champions Morocco, DR Congo, Zambia, and Angola in what promises to be a highly competitive CHAN tournament beginning August 2.
Players in the camp, including Shabana teenager Austin Odongo and Gor Mahia duo Alphonce Omija and Austin Odhiambo, have echoed their coach’s sentiments, praising the quality of training sessions and expressing confidence ahead of the continental showpiece.
As McCarthy continues to deflect criticism and maintain his authority, the focus now shifts to finalizing preparations for what could be Kenya’s best opportunity to make a significant impact at the CHAN tournament on home soil.
For the first time ever, Kenya will compete in the African Nations Championship (CHAN), and the Harambee Stars are ready to shine.
Head coach Benni McCarthy has officially named his final 25-man squad for the 2024 CHAN tournament, set to kick off on August 2 across four East African nations: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zanzibar.
The South African tactician has built a squad filled with domestic-based stars, blending experience with promising young talent. With Kenya playing host, expectations are sky-high.
The Harambee Stars CHAN 2024 squad is a daring mix of grit, youth, and ambition. With Benni McCarthy at the helm, Kenya is not just hosting the continent—they’re ready to compete. Whether they go all the way or not, one thing is clear: the future of local football starts now. [Photo: Courtesy]
Harambee Stars CHAN 2024 Squad Revealed by Benni McCarthy
Benni McCarthy has shown boldness and belief in local talent. His final selection features players from the FKF Premier League and Kenya’s youth setups. His message is clear—this is a team built to fight, not just participate.
Leading the squad is left-back Aboud Omar, a seasoned defender who has captained the national side before. He will be flanked by vice-captains Daniel Sakari and Alphonce Omija, adding stability and leadership across all thirds of the pitch.
The goalkeeper department includes the experienced Faruk Shikhalo, alongside Sebastian Wekesa and Byrne Omondi, both of whom impressed during recent domestic campaigns. Shikhalo is expected to start, but McCarthy has praised Wekesa’s shot-stopping and Omondi’s composure under pressure.
In defence, McCarthy has gone for a robust mix of experience and youthful energy. Alongside Omar, the backline features Siraj Mohammed, Michael Kibwage, and Sylvester Owino, all of whom have earned reputations for their aggressive marking and ability to read the game.
Daniel Sakari adds pace and stamina on the right flank, while Alphonce Omija brings aerial strength and leadership at center back.
Notably, McCarthy has included three rising stars—Manzur Suleiman from the Kenya U-20 team, Swaleh Pamba, and Kevin Okumu—as a signal of trust in the next generation. Lewis Bandi, a reliable left-sided defender, completes the 8-man defensive unit.
In midfield, the squad boasts creativity, energy, and tactical flexibility. Alpha Onyango and Brian Musa are expected to anchor the middle of the park. Austine Odhiambo brings flair and quick feet, while Ben Stanley and Marvin Nabwire offer control and attacking intent.
McCarthy has emphasized ball retention and quick transitions—skills this midfield group is expected to deliver.
Kenya’s Attacking Arsenal Ready for CHAN Test
Up front, the spotlight will shine on veteran striker Masoud Juma, who leads the line with strength and experience. Juma is no stranger to high-pressure matches and will be central to Kenya’s goal-scoring hopes.
Supporting him are Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, and Ryan Ogam, all of whom bring speed and versatility. Ogam has particularly impressed in local competitions with his relentless pressing and goal threat.
McCarthy’s selection also features exciting first-time call-ups: David Sakwa, Austin Odongo, and Felix Oluoch. These fresh faces will inject hunger and unpredictability, key ingredients in a tournament where surprises are common.
This is not just a squad of individuals but a team built on chemistry, pace, and purpose. McCarthy’s training sessions have focused on attacking transitions, pressing triggers, and compact defensive shapes—tactics tailored for CHAN’s fast-paced environment.
Kenya will face seasoned sides like Morocco, Zambia, and Rwanda in a tough group, but McCarthy believes the home advantage and his players’ hunger to shine will tip the balance. [Photo: Courtesy]
Kenya’s Debut at CHAN Brings Hopes and Pressure
This CHAN edition holds extra weight for the Harambee Stars—it’s a debut on home soil. Kenya’s co-hosting status means expectations are enormous, both from fans and football authorities.
CHAN 2024 provides an opportunity for Kenyan-based players to prove they can compete at a continental level without relying on foreign-based stars.
Benni McCarthy, who has vast experience both as a former Bafana Bafana striker and as a successful club coach, is under the spotlight. But he remains confident.
“This squad reflects the quality of football in Kenya. We are not here to participate. We are here to compete and make Kenyans proud,” McCarthy said during the squad announcement.
Kenya is grouped alongside seasoned sides like Morocco, Zambia, and Rwanda. While the group is tough, McCarthy believes the home advantage and the players’ hunger to shine will tip the balance.
The Harambee Stars will kick off their campaign on August 3 in Nairobi. Training camps are already underway in Machakos and Kisumu, with fans showing up in numbers to cheer on their team.
Final 25-Man Harambee Stars CHAN 2024 Squad
Goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Sebastian Wekesa, Byrne Omondi Defenders: Aboud Omar (captain), Siraj Mohammed, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Michael Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Manzur Suleiman, Swaleh Pamba, Kevin Okumu, Lewis Bandi Midfielders: Brian Musa, Alpha Onyango, Austine Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire Forwards: Masoud Juma, Mohammed Bajaber, Boniface Muchiri, Ryan Ogam, David Sakwa, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch
East African nation secures prestigious finale as continent’s second-tier tournament returns after delays
Kenya has been awarded the honor of hosting the final match of the delayed 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), with Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani confirmed as the venue for the tournament’s climactic showdown on August 30.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced the decision on Thursday, designating the 55,000-capacity stadium as the stage for what promises to be a memorable conclusion to the continent’s premier domestic-based players tournament.
The selection represents a significant coup for Kenyan football, underlining the country’s growing reputation as a capable host for major continental competitions.
Kenya will share hosting duties with regional neighbors Uganda and Tanzania for the 19-team tournament, which runs from August 2-30.
This tri-nation approach marks an innovative collaboration that showcases East Africa’s collective capacity to deliver world-class sporting events.
The tournament opener will take place at Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on August 2, while Uganda’s Mandela Stadium in Kampala has been selected to host the third-place playoff. This distribution of key matches across the three host nations demonstrates CAF’s commitment to ensuring each country enjoys significant moments during the championship.
CHAN, held biennially, maintains a unique position in African football as the only continental tournament exclusively reserved for players competing in their domestic leagues. This format celebrates homegrown talent and provides a platform for local stars who might otherwise be overshadowed by their Europe-based counterparts in other international competitions.
The tournament’s return follows earlier postponements, making the 2024 edition particularly anticipated across the continent. For Kenya, hosting the final represents an opportunity to showcase both its footballing passion and infrastructure capabilities to a continental audience.
The Kasarani stadium, with its impressive capacity and modern facilities, has previously hosted major events and stands ready to provide a fitting backdrop for African football’s domestic champions to be crowned. With the tournament now just weeks away, anticipation is building across East Africa for what promises to be a celebration of the continent’s grassroots football talent.
The successful staging of CHAN 2024 could further cement Kenya’s position as a preferred destination for major African sporting events, potentially opening doors for future tournament hosting opportunities.
The Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) today announced the postponement of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (“CHAN”) Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda 2024 to August 2025.
Good progress has been made in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda with the construction and upgrading of stadiums, training fields, hotels, hospitals and other infrastructure and facilities for the hosting of a successful TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (“CHAN”) Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda 2024.
However the CAF Technical and Infrastructure experts some of whom have been based in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, have advised CAF that more time is required to ensure that the infrastructure and facilities, are at the levels, necessary for hosting a successful TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (“CHAN”) Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda 2024.
Nyayo Stadium.
The President of CAF Dr Patrice Motsepe said: “I would like to express my deep gratitude to President William Ruto of Kenya, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania and President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda for their leadership, commitment and the good progress that has been made in building and upgrading the stadiums, training fields, hotels, hospitals and other infrastructure and facilities in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda for hosting a successful TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (“CHAN”) Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda 2024.
I am impressed with the ongoing construction and renovations of the football infrastructure and facilities in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. I am confident that the stadiums, training fields, hotels, hospitals and other infrastructure and facilities will be at the requisite CAF standards for hosting, in August 2025, a very successful TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (“CHAN”) Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda 2024.”
CAF will be conducting the Draw of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (“CHAN”) Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda 2024 in Nairobi, on Wednesday 15 January 2025 at 20h00 Nairobi Time.
