Barely a week after the biggest football fixture in the Kenyan calendar, “the Mashemeji derby," was cancelled for the second time due to a lack of an appropriate match venue, the Ministry of Sports has assured Kenyans that preparations for this year’s Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) are on the right track.
This is after Kenyans raised eyebrows over the country's readiness for the African football bonanza due to delays in the completion of host venues, Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadium.
According to Cabinet Secretary for Sports Salim Mvurya, everything is running smoothly with contractors doing final touches on both stadiums, and Kenya is within schedule.
The tournaments are set to be co-hosted by the three East African neighbours Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, in August 2025 and 2027, respectively.
Mvurya, while providing an update on the construction and renovations of key facilities earmarked for the two big tournaments, dismissed concerns regarding the preparation process, despite the postponement of CHAN from February to August this year.
“There should be no doubts about our commitment. The government is fully focused on ensuring that all infrastructure is ready on time, and we are working closely with our partners to deliver world-class facilities,” Mvurya said.
Mvurya also exuded confidence in the new Harambee Stars Head Coach, Benni McCarthy, and hopes he will propel Kenya to the World Cup stage.
Meanwhile, Sports Principal Secretary Eng. Peter Tum emphasized that the government is focused on infrastructure development and grassroots sports academies.
“We are making deliberate investments in sports infrastructure and youth development to unlock the full potential of our young talents from the grassroots level," Tum said.
Tum said they are working around the clock to ensure Kenyan teams honour global fixtures to build their experience, provide crucial exposure, and aid in their overall development.
Ahead of the CHAN and AFCON preparations, Tum said their commitment is expected to boost Kenya’s standing in international football while nurturing emerging talent across the country.
