The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), the eighth version of the every-two-years competition managed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is now scheduled to occur between August 2 and August 30, 2025.
Initially planned for February 2025, the event was delayed because of infrastructure issues and extra qualification rounds required following the departure of several qualified teams, such as Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, and Gabon.
For the first time in its history, CHAN will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, according to Caf, who refers to this as a preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which will also take place in these three East African nations.
Participating Teams and Format
A total of 19 national teams will take part, with only athletes who play in their local leagues being allowed to join. The competition starts with a group phase, then moves on to the quarterfinals, semifinals, a match for third place, and finally the championship. The top two teams from each group will progress to the elimination rounds.
In the past, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Morocco have both secured the championship on two occasions. Tunisia, Libya, and the current champions, Senegal, each hold one victory.
Hosting Nations and Stadiums
Kenya
Kenya will be the host for Group A, which includes Kenya, Morocco, Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia, at the Moi International Sports Centre (Kasarani) in Nairobi. Although there were initial setbacks, the nation has invested Sh2.58 billion to renovate both Nyayo and Kasarani. Nevertheless, because of insufficient training facilities, Kenya was unable to host Group D, which has now been moved to Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.
Kenya's main venues:
Moi International Sports Centre (Kasarani) - 60,000 seating capacity, will be the venue for the final and closing ceremony.
Nyayo National Stadium – with a seating capacity of 30,000, situated in the heart of Nairobi. Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya stated that Kenya has already paid a fee of Sh1.6 billion to Caf for hosting, and arrangements are currently in progress.
Uganda
Uganda will organize Group C matches and the third-place match at the Mandela National Stadium (Namboole) in Kampala, which can hold 45,202 spectators. Caf has given approval to multiple Ugandan venues, highlighting notable advancements in sports infrastructure. Group C consists of: Uganda, Niger, Guinea, Algeria, and South Africa.
Tanzania
Tanzania will be the venue for Group B games as well as some matches from Group D. The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar-es-salaam, which has a capacity of 60,000, will host the tournament's opening game and all matches in Group B, including those involving Tanzania, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan.
In the meantime, Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar (with a capacity of 15,000) will make its debut in a significant Caf competition by hosting Group D matches including Nigeria, Senegal, Congo, and Sudan. Caf has stated that Tanzania's venues are completely prepared for the event.
Prize Money
The funding for the 2024 CHAN competition has seen a major rise. The winning team will be awarded Sh452.8 million, highlighting Caf's dedication to raising the tournament's status. In addition to monetary benefits, the event is anticipated to enhance tourism, support local football players, and improve sports facilities throughout East Africa.
Ticket Information
The Local Organizing Committee (LOC), led by Nicholas Musonye, has announced the ticket costs for the competition. During a press conference on Friday, July 11, Musonye stated:
Regular tickets: Sh200
VIP tickets: Sh500
VVIP tickets: Sh1,000
These rates will be applied consistently in all three host nations, with tickets accessible only through the internet. Each ticket is valid for a single match. The LOC highlighted affordability to promote fully filled stadiums and a lively atmosphere.
CHAN 2024 Match Locations Overview
Kenya: Moi Stadium, Kasarani, and Nyayo Stadium—located in Nairobi.
Uganda: Nelson Mandela National Stadium (Namboole) – Kampala.
Tanzania: Benjamin Mkapa Stadium – Dar es Salaam, and Amaan Stadium – Zanzibar.
The initial event and game will be hosted at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, whereas the final match and closing ceremony will occur at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.
Harambee Stars preparations
As part of their preparation, Kenya's national team, the Harambee Stars, began a training camp on July 10, in anticipation of their opening match against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday, August 3.
This partnership in East Africa represents a significant achievement for regional football, offering an unforgettable CHAN competition that highlights homegrown talent on a broader African platform.
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