CHAN: Blow to Kenyans as CAF fails to restore full-capacity status at Kasarani

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said on Wednesday the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) had appealed to CAF to revise the stadium capacity from the current 60% to full capacity, even as the continental body remained silent on the matter ahead of the crunch quarter finals clash pitting Harambee Stars and Madagascar on Friday.

Speaking to journalists at Kasarani Stadium, CS Mvurya brimmed with confidence CAF will lift the restrictions on Kenya, banking his hopes on what he termed as a ‘near-perfect’ conduct from the fans after FKF received a positive report from the continental body following Harambee Stars’ last group game against Zambia on Sunday.

“We did not have any incident that could attract sanctions from CAF and therefore we want to thank the 12th man, the fans, the security team and all stakeholders who played a key role in ensuring a seamless game on Sunday. This affirmation underscores Kenya’s commitment to delivering a safe and world-class tournament experience,” he said.

“FKF has already engaged CAF to have the numbers revised; however, we await CAF’s response and will communicate any updates in due course,” he added.

The CS assured that preparations for Friday’s quarterfinal clash between Kenya and Madagascar were in top gear, with strengthened measures to ensure smooth gate operations, enhanced security, and improved lighting to guarantee both safety and a memorable fan experience.

To expand access for fans, the Government, through FKF and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), has increased the number of official fan zones from 10 to 13, giving more Kenyans the opportunity to rally behind the national team.

Ruiru, Dagoretti’s Camp Toyoyo, and Babadogo are the new additions to the existing fan zones located at Uhuru Park, Archives, Dandora, Jacaranda, Clay City, Githurai, Kibra DC Grounds, and Lucky Summer in Kasarani.

The CS further welcomed private and county stakeholders interested in establishing fan zones across Nairobi and Mombasa as alternative venues for fans to enjoy the games.

In partnership with the County Government of Mombasa, six additional fan zones will be hosted at Changamwe Volleyball Grounds in Changamwe Sub County, St. Mary’s Bangladesh Grounds in Jomvu Sub County, Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mvita Sub County, Shelly Beach in Likoni Sub County, Hassan Joho Stadium (Uwanja wa Mbuzi) in Nyali Sub County, and Bilima Grounds in Kisauni Sub County.

On ticketing, the Ministry confirmed that CAF was working to resolve recent technical challenges on its online portal and assured fans that updates will be communicated promptly once the issue is fully addressed.

“CAF is sorting out the issue of ticketing. There was a challenge yesterday, and they are working on it. We are confident they will announce soon how fans can access tickets through the portal. In the meantime, we urge Kenyans to maintain their high spirits, unity, and unwavering support for the Harambee Stars,” the CS said.