Nairobi, Kenya – July 12, 2025
Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Chairman Nicholas Musonye has expressed confidence in Kenya’s state of readiness to host the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament, scheduled to kick off on August 2nd, 2025. Addressing the media during a briefing at Nyayo National Stadium, Musonye praised the government’s commitment and called on Kenyans to unite and support the continental event.
Infrastructure Now in Place After Years of Setbacks
Musonye acknowledged Kenya’s previous failed attempts to host major continental tournaments, specifically AFCON 1996 and CHAN 2018, both of which were withdrawn due to inadequate infrastructure. This time, however, he stated that things are different.
“I want to thank our government for coming out strongly to ensure that our facilities are in place. We have come from far. For the first time since 1987, we now have world-class stadiums and training grounds. What you see at Nyayo and Kasarani are facilities Kenyans will be proud of,” said Musonye.
He emphasized that massive renovation efforts have transformed previously outdated venues into modern, internationally compliant stadiums.
CAF Greenlight and Capacity Building Workshops
Musonye confirmed that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) had given Kenya the final go-ahead following a recent inspection.
“CAF was here for three days. They were satisfied and gave us the greenlight to proceed. They also helped us conduct capacity-building workshops for our committees. This tournament will be executed by a young generation, and we are building the capacity to deliver,” he noted.
Operations Now Underway
With infrastructure completed, Musonye explained that the LOC’s focus has now shifted fully to operations.
“Our work now is about how teams are received, accommodated, transported, and how media and training grounds are organized. All committees; from operations to media, marketing, communications, and legal are active and working around the clock,” he said.
He specifically praised the Media Committee under Elias Makori, and stressed that the operations phase is critical to the tournament’s success.
Affordable Tickets and Double-Headers
Musonye confirmed that ticket prices for CHAN matches will be set at Ksh. 200, 500, and 1,000 for Upper , Lower & VIP respectively, ensuring affordability for local fans. Matches will be played in double-header formats : 3 PM at Kasarani and 6 PM at Nyayo every match day.
“We want Kenyans to come in large numbers. We understand the economy, and that’s why tickets are priced to accommodate everyone. Tickets will go on sale starting July 15th,” he announced.To ease movement between venues, the LOC is coordinating with traffic police and exploring shuttle services between the two stadiums.
A Call to National Unity and Youth Participation
In an emotional appeal, Musonye urged Kenyans from all walks of life to rally behind the tournament.
“This is our moment. We want the youth, the elderly, men, women—everyone—to come and enjoy football. This is about national pride, a legacy we can leave behind. Kenya is diverse, but we have always been united by the spirit of Harambee. Let us show Africa who we are,” he said.
On Procurement Allegations: “Homeboyz Has No Role”
Musonye also addressed swirling rumours about alleged conflicts of interest involving entertainment company Homeboyz and the tournament’s procurement process.
“Let’s stop the rumourmongering. Homeboyz is not involved in CHAN. Even the CEO, who owns Homeboyz, has no role in procurement,” Musonye clarified.
“All procurement is being done directly by the Ministry of Sports at headquarters. The process was transparent—advertised, applied for, and finalized through government channels,” he emphasized.He added that even his own family members had been instructed not to seek involvement, to avoid any perception of bias or impropriety.
