Murkomen Acknowledges Stadium Challenges as CHAN Deadline Approaches

Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has subtly criticized his predecessor for committing Kenya to provide two stadiums for hosting the Africa Nations Championships (CHAN) in February 2025.

Amid concerns about the country’s preparedness, Murkomen assured that Kenya would be ready to host the tournament. However, recent reports suggest the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has awarded hosting rights to Rwanda, citing doubts over Kenya’s ability to meet the December 31 stadium readiness deadline. CAF has yet to issue an official statement, and Murkomen remains optimistic, stating, “We are hosting CHAN from February 1 to February 28, 2025.”

The CS took a veiled jab at former Sports CS Ababu Namwamba and outgoing Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Nick Mwendwa for their ambitious commitment. “Looking back, it was a mistake. Even Uganda and Tanzania, with CAF-approved stadiums, only committed one each. For us, it was overly ambitious given that none of our stadiums met the standards,” Murkomen remarked.

Kenya was set to co-host CHAN with Uganda and Tanzania, both of which already have CAF-approved venues. Kenya, however, still lacks suitable stadiums, with Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums far from completion. Kasarani is only 30% renovated, missing key components such as the pitch, seating, roofing, and floodlights. Nyayo Stadium is even less prepared.

Murkomen explained delays, stating that critical materials, including roofing and seating, are still en route. Renovation at Kasarani began in May, and while some progress has been made, the timeline remains tight.

Despite efforts, Kenya risks losing hosting rights to Rwanda, which already has a compliant venue, the Amahoro Stadium. Last week, Murkomen established a 36-member multi-agency team to oversee CHAN preparations and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, including representatives from key government ministries.

The race against time continues as Kenya scrambles to meet the requirements and avoid forfeiting the prestigious hosting opportunity.