Mvurya conducts final CHAN inspection, expresses confidence in Kenya's readiness

Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Salim Mvurya has concluded his final inspection tour ahead of the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, expressing confidence in Kenya’s preparedness to host the biennial tournament.

The CS made a stop at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Wednesday, where he assessed arrival protocols and logistics set up for the visiting delegations.

Speaking after the inspection, Mvurya noted that he was satisfied with the arrangements and infrastructure in place, saying Kenya is ready to welcome participating teams and officials.

“We have confirmed the protocols of arrivals of the delegates of CHAN. We have gone through the port head, immigrations, customs and finally the waiting tent. As a government we are satisfied with the arrangements that have been put here,” said Mvurya.

Earlier in the day, the CS visited Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums, two of the key venues for the CHAN 2024 tournament. He commended the progress and quality of work done at both venues.

Mvurya said that it would be a collective responsibility for the citizens to ensure that we host a successful tournament.

“I am pleased with the work done at the stadiums. Hosting CHAN successfully will not only be a government achievement but a collective responsibility for all Kenyans,” said the CS.

“If we have a successful CHAN then we will build a good reputation that we can host major tournaments. If all goes as planned and we also host the AFCON 2027 as required, then we will be able to even bid for the hosting rights of the World Cup.”

As Harambee Stars continued to intensify its preparation ahead of CHAN 2024 tournament, Bunge FC, a team made up of Members of Parliament, Senators and Parliamentary Service Commission staff, gave the team extra motivation heading to the opening match.

Speaking on behalf of Bunge FC, Rarieda Member of Parliament Otiende Amollo, said they would give the national team Ksh.1 million to motivate them ahead of the continental games.

“As Bunge FC, we fully support the team and we will be part of the crowds to cheer the team. Further, we will donate a further one million shillings to act as an extra motivation to the team,” promised Amollo.

Harambee Stars will kick off their campaign against DR Congo on August 3 at Moi Kasarani.

Four days later, Benni McCarthy’s men will square it out with Angola at the same venue before meeting Morocco on August 10.