Kenyans will have to wait longer before Kasarani Stadium is allowed to host fans at full capacity.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has declined to lift the partial closure of the stadium, which was imposed after security lapses during two Harambee Stars preliminary matches in the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya confirmed on Wednesday that the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) had pushed CAF to approve the Kasarani full capacity bid.
Currently, the stadium can only host 60 percent of its capacity. CAF, however, has not responded to the appeal, leaving uncertainty just days before Kenya faces Madagascar in the CHAN quarterfinals on Friday.
Speaking at Kasarani, Mvurya expressed optimism.
He said the FKF received a positive report from CAF following Harambee Stars’ last group match against Zambia.
He credited fans, security officers, and other stakeholders for their discipline and cooperation.
“We did not record any incidents that could attract new sanctions. I want to thank the fans, the security team, and everyone who made Sunday’s game smooth and safe. This shows Kenya is ready to host world-class tournaments,” he said.
The CS added that FKF has formally engaged CAF to revise the stadium capacity. “We are waiting for CAF’s feedback, and we will share updates as soon as we get them,” he stated.
Mvurya assured Kenyans that preparations for the Madagascar clash were complete.
He highlighted new security measures, better gate management, and improved lighting at the stadium to give fans a safe and memorable experience.
To give more people access to the matches, the Government has also increased official fan zones from 10 to 13.
New centers at Ruiru, Camp Toyoyo in Dagoretti, and Babadogo will now join existing zones at Uhuru Park, Archives, Jacaranda, Dandora, Clay City, Githurai, Kibra DC Grounds, and Lucky Summer in Kasarani.
The Ministry has also welcomed private companies and county governments to create additional fan zones.
In partnership with the Mombasa County Government, six more venues will host fans.
These include Changamwe Volleyball Grounds, St. Mary’s Bangladesh Grounds, Mama Ngina Waterfront, Shelly Beach in Likoni, Hassan Joho Stadium in Nyali, and Bilima Grounds in Kisauni.
On ticketing, Mvurya admitted there had been recent challenges with CAF’s online system.
He assured Kenyans that CAF was already fixing the issue and would update fans soon.
“CAF is working on the ticketing problem. We expect an announcement shortly on how fans can buy tickets online. In the meantime, we urge Kenyans to remain united and keep supporting the Harambee Stars,” he said.
