CHAN 2024: Gov’t urges Kenyans to ‘behave’ as CAF comes down hard with fines

In a media briefing on Thursday, Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo urged fans attending Harambee Stars matches at Kasarani Stadium ‘to show a sense of patriotism by adhering to conditions set by CAF on fan safety, security protocols, and crowd conduct.’

His plea comes after CAF descended hard on Football Kenya Federation (FKF) with a Ksh. 2.5million fine after security breaches during Kenya versus DR Congo opening fixture at Kasarani last Sunday.

Omollo warned that such breaches – even outside the stadium – would result in consequences, including formal warnings, penalties or disqualification from future bids.

He said incidents like jumping barriers, shoving, or vandalism reflect poorly on Kenya’s sporting culture, and level of civility.

“Needless to say, such actions damage our reputation, international standing and our ability to host future tournaments. Against this backdrop, I must say that CHAN is our audition for hosting the AFCON 2027 tournament. Every match is an opportunity to prove we can host Africa’s biggest football event.

“Our stadium upgrades mean little if our fans do not cooperate with the security and stewards on the ground,” said Omollo.

“CAF and other stakeholders are closely observing not just the games, but the overall fan experience and security management. Therefore, our success in hosting the ongoing tournament must go beyond the readiness of our facilities and our on-field performance.”

“We must show we are not just passionate; we must also demonstrate that we honour the game and opportunity. Let’s match patriotism with responsibility.”

The CAF Security Officer’s report released on Wednesday, highlighted serious lapses, including a stampede at entry Gate 11 at Kasarani, unauthorized access to restricted Public Security Areas (PSA), and a motorcycle dangerously weaving through the crowd.

‎Fans also ignited fires behind the stands at Block 18, while State Security personnel reportedly denied CAF staff and protocol officers—including a member of the South African President’s Close Protection Unit—access to the VVIP area.

‎‎As a result, CAF imposed three penalties on FKF —Ksh 644,500 (USD 5,000) for the stampede and unauthorized entry, Ksh 1,289,000 (USD 10,000) for the assault and obstruction of CAF officials and guests, and an official warning over the stadium fires. All fines must be settled within 60 days.

‎‎In a separate disciplinary matter involving FKF from an earlier CHAN 2024 match between Morocco and Angola, CAF also levied a Ksh 644,500 (USD 5,000) fine, of which Ksh 322,250 (USD 2,500) is suspended on condition FKF avoids repeat offences during the remainder of the tournament.

‎‎These developments raise fresh concerns over Kenya’s safety and security management, especially as the national team prepares to face Angola on Thursday at 7 PM in their second Group A fixture at the same venue.