Tight security on Thika road as Ruto, FIFA boss Infantino set to grace CHAN final at Kasarani

Heavy security has been mounted along Thika Road and around the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, ahead of today’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) final.

Police officers in full gear were deployed early in the day, manning key points including the busy Roysambu roundabout and access routes to Kasarani.

Motorists were subjected to security checks as police sought to guarantee the safety of fans, dignitaries, and international visitors flocking to the venue.

President William Ruto will join FIFA President Gianni Infantino at Kasarani for the highly anticipated clash between Madagascar and Morocco. CAF President Patrice Motsepe will also be in attendance.

The final, scheduled to kick off at 6pm, will bring down the curtain on the month-long tournament that began on August 2.

President Ruto’s presence at the finals underscores not only the government’s commitment to sports but also his personal love for football.

The President has been a visible supporter of the national team during the CHAN tournament, gracing Harambee Stars’ matches at Kasarani and cheering the side on despite their early exit.

His participation has been viewed as a morale boost to players and fans alike, signaling his determination to restore Kenya’s place in continental football.

Infantino arrived in Nairobi on Friday afternoon in what has been described as a landmark moment for Kenyan football. It is his first official visit to the country since assuming office in 2016.

He was received at JKIA by Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed, who hailed the trip as a sign of FIFA’s renewed confidence in Kenya’s football future.

“This is a historic moment for Kenya. The FIFA President’s visit reflects the trust placed in our nation’s ability to host major football events,” Mohammed said shortly after receiving Infantino.

Infantino will be the chief guest at the final, alongside President Ruto, in a show of global football’s recognition of Kenya’s growing place in the sport.

The final pits debutants Madagascar, who have stunned football fans with their fairytale run, against Morocco, the two-time CHAN champions aiming to reclaim continental glory.

Beyond the spectacle, Infantino’s presence is seen as boosting Kenya’s hopes of hosting bigger football tournaments in the future, including the Africa Cup of Nations.

The success of CHAN 2024 and the visit of the FIFA President are being viewed as crucial stepping stones toward that bigger stage.

Kenya is also set to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), jointly with Uganda and Tanzania, a milestone that will test its readiness for continental showpieces.