Tough Rules Kenyans Attending CHAN Should Know About: Govt

One of the major changes is the adoption of a fully digital ticketing system

Tough Rules Kenyans Attending CHAN Should Know About: Govt
Collage of the CHAN trophy and an aerial view of the Moi International Sports Complex. /CAF.MINISTRY OF SPORTS

As Kenya gears up for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) set to begin on August 2, the government has issued strict guidelines for fans planning to attend the games.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, speaking on Wednesday, July 23, stated that the new measures aim to ensure safety and smooth operations throughout the tournament.

One of the major changes is the adoption of a fully digital ticketing system—only fans with valid e-tickets will be granted entry into the stadiums, as no physical tickets will be accepted at the gates.

"All tickets will be sold exclusively online. No physical tickets will be accepted at any gate," the CS said.

CS Salim Mvurya speaking during a three-day multi-agency training on safety and security operations ahead of CHAN 2024 on July 23, 2025. /SALIM MVURYA

To enhance security, the Ministry has implemented a four-tier screening system at all stadiums. These checkpoints will be used to validate tickets, perform security checks, and manage crowd flow to avoid stampedes and restrict unauthorised entry.

"Our layers of screening will be in place to ensure secure, efficient movement into and around the stadiums," the CS continued.

Four Layers of Screening Introduced Ahead of CHAN 2025

The government has rolled out a strict access policy for the upcoming CHAN 2025 tournament, making it clear that only fans with valid digital tickets will be allowed into the stadiums.

The Sports Ministry has urged all interested attendees to purchase tickets online, warning that entry without one will not be permitted.

"Entry will be strictly limited to those with valid digital tickets. Without one, you will not be allowed access," the CS emphasised.

As part of enhanced safety measures, the Ministry has established a four-layer security screening system at all venues. These checkpoints are designed to verify ticket authenticity, conduct thorough security checks, and control crowd movement to prevent stampedes and unauthorised access.

The initiative is in line with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) safety regulations, which mandate host countries to enforce robust crowd management protocols.

In addition, a CHAN Security Hotline has been launched to allow residents and fans to report suspicious activity, threats, or safety concerns during the tournament.

CHAN 2025 will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Nairobi will host all of Kenya’s Group A fixtures and the tournament final on August 30. Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo National Stadium have been selected as the main venues for the matches.

Nyayo National Stadium ahead of CHAN 2024. /SALIM MVURYA