Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has formally appealed to CAF, seeking approval to lift the cap on stadium attendance for Friday’s Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) quarterfinal showdown against Madagascar, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has revealed.
CAF had earlier restricted capacity to 60 per cent after chaotic security breaches marred Kenya’s 1-0 group-stage victory over Morocco. That ruling saw entry at Kasarani trimmed from 46,000 to just 27,000 for the Stars’ final group clash with Zambia last Sunday.
Speaking on Wednesday, Mvurya confirmed that FKF was engaging CAF to have full stadium capacity for Kenya's quarterfinal tie against Madagascar.
“FKF has already engaged CAF to have the numbers revised. However, we await CAF’s response and will communicate any updates in due course,” Mvurya said.
The CS was quick to commend Kenyan supporters, pointing out that Sunday’s clash against Zambia passed without incident.
“We did not have any incident that could attract sanctions from CAF, and therefore we want to thank the 12th man, the fans, the security team and all stakeholders who played a key role in ensuring a seamless game on Sunday."
"This affirmation underscores Kenya’s commitment to delivering a safe and world-class tournament experience,” he said. Ticketing, however, remains a thorn in the side of fans desperate to see the Stars march on to the semis.
Mvurya admitted CAF’s online portal had been hit by glitches, but assured supporters that the confederation is working around the clock to resolve the technical snarl-up.
“CAF is sorting out the issue of ticketing. There was a challenge yesterday, and they are working on it. We are confident they will announce soon how fans can access tickets through the portal. In the meantime, we urge Kenyans to maintain their high spirits, unity, and unwavering support for the Harambee Stars,” the CS said.
To ease the burden on match-day crowds, FKF and the Local Organising Committee have expanded official fan zones from 10 to 13 in Nairobi and Mombasa. Ruiru, Dagoretti’s Camp, Toyoyo and Babadogo are the new additions to the existing fan zones located at Uhuru Park, Archives, Dandora, Jacaranda, Clay City, Githurai, Kibra DC Grounds and Lucky Summer in Kasarani.
Mombasa, meanwhile, will host six new venues courtesy of a partnership with the County Government: Changamwe Volleyball Grounds, St. Mary’s Bangladesh Grounds, Mama Ngina Waterfront, Shelly Beach, Hassan Joho Stadium and Bilima Grounds. Mvurya welcomed further input from private and county stakeholders to boost the fan experience.
