Kenya is preparing to take centre stage in African football as the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) reaches its climax this week, with the continental champions set to be crowned at Kasarani Stadium on Saturday, August 30.
The tournament, which began with the opening whistle in Dar es Salaam and Kampala, now concludes in Nairobi, a fitting finale for a competition that has showcased unity, discipline, and the best of domestic football talent across Africa.
For Kenya, it is a statement of intent, positioning the country as a continental football hub ahead of its co-hosting duties for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has praised Kenya’s upgraded infrastructure, including the refurbishment of Kasarani, which is now regarded as one of the most advanced stadiums in Eastern Africa.
Security and organisation remain central to the preparations, with authorities urging fans to adhere to stadium guidelines and maintain a safe and celebratory atmosphere. The final will also be broadcast across Africa, with Nairobi serving as the command centre for the tournament’s media coverage.
Beyond the final, the legacy of CHAN 2024 is already being felt. Investments in stadiums, fan safety, and community inclusion are laying the groundwork for AFCON 2027 and reviving memories of Kenya’s role in hosting continental events, such as the 1987 All Africa Games.
As the last two teams prepare for the decisive clash, anticipation is building over who will walk away with the crown. The final is not just about lifting a trophy; it is about making history in front of thousands of fans and millions more watching across the continent.
On Saturday night, under the floodlights of Kasarani, Africa will unite in celebration and one team will etch its name into history as the CHAN 2024 champions, crowned in Kenya.
Harambee Stars
Harambee Stars have played a starring role in the story so far, stunning traditional giants and uniting a country that has long yearned for football glory. Their 1–0 victory over DR Congo and a gritty win against Morocco secured them a place in the knockout stages for the first time in CHAN history.
“This team has shown what unity and belief can do. We are playing not just for ourselves, but for every Kenyan who loves the game,” said midfielder Austin Odhiambo, one of the standout performers of the campaign.
Football Kenya Federation President Nick Mwendwa praised the players for their resilience and discipline. “This is history in the making. Harambee Stars have given us results on the pitch, and off it we are proving that Kenya can host and deliver world-class football events.”
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also lauded Kenya’s organisation and fan engagement.
“The atmosphere in Nairobi has been electric, and the commitment to safe and exciting football is something we are proud to see,” said CAF President Patrice Motsepe in a statement.
President William Ruto, who hosted the team at State House after their victory over Morocco, underlined the importance of the tournament in inspiring the next generation.
Speaking during a live TV interview on Sunday, August 24, 2025, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed revealed that Harambee Stars players and officials had received a total of Ksh232 million.
“Ksh21 million has been paid to the players through allowances, then there is the money that was given by the president as bonuses. The allowances were paid in July when they were in camp and again on August 23, 2025,” Mohammed said.
“We have paid Ksh21 million in allowances from FKF and the balance from the bonuses; we are looking at Ksh232 million that has actually been given to the national team.”
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