Kenya Boosts Security Ahead of CHAN Kickoff This Weekend

• Aug 01, 2025

As the African Nations Championship (CHAN) begins this weekend, Kenya has rolled out strict security and travel measures to ensure a smooth and safe tournament for players, officials, and fans.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed that the country is fully prepared to co-host the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania. He described CHAN as a significant milestone for Kenya and a crucial test run ahead of hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.

To strengthen security, the Ministry of Interior has installed modern CCTV systems in key areas, improved airport and border checks, and introduced dedicated immigration desks. These steps are meant to ease travel into Kenya and facilitate movement across the region to neighboring co-hosts.

“We are hosting CHAN this weekend, which is historic for Kenya,” Murkomen said. “It is helping us prepare for AFCON 2027, and we are confident in our readiness.”

Security has also been boosted with the deployment of tourist police, improved hotel safety measures, and fully activated emergency response teams, including ambulances stationed at key venues. An online ticketing system has also been introduced to avoid long queues and reduce crowding at stadium gates.

Murkomen assured the public that the main venues—Nyayo Stadium and Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani—are ready for action. He said the facilities had been inspected for a final time by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Principal Secretary for Internal Security Dr. Raymond Omollo, who confirmed everything was in place.

To ease travel, a special regional travel pass has been introduced for fans moving between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Most regional visitors will not require a visa, and some Caribbean nationals will also benefit from simplified entry processes.

Murkomen urged fans to arrive early to avoid last-minute rushes and reduce the risk of stampedes at stadium gates. He also warned that strict checks would be in place to prevent the entry of weapons or other prohibited items.

Player movement will be tightly secured to ensure there are no disruptions on or off the field. Murkomen encouraged Kenyans to show up in large numbers and support Harambee Stars during their opening match on Sunday and throughout the tournament.

He made these remarks in Kajiado County ahead of his 24th Jukwaa La Usalama consultative forum, where he was joined by Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, Inspector General Kanja, and other officials