The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has asked the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to lift the 60 per cent capacity restriction at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
This comes as Kenya prepares to face Madagascar in the African Nations Championship quarterfinals on Friday, August 22, 2025.
CAF had earlier restricted attendance to about 27,000 fans following security lapses during group stage matches. There were reports of fans forcing their way into the stadium, stampede-like scenes, and the use of tear gas at entry points.
Kenya was fined more than Ksh 12 million for those breaches, with CAF warning that future matches could even be moved to other venues if safety concerns persisted.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya confirmed on Wednesday that FKF has appealed the restriction, saying the government and local organisers have put stronger measures in place.
These include tighter gate operations, improved security coordination, and better lighting inside and outside the stadium.
Mvurya praised fans and security teams for their discipline during Kenya’s 2-1 victory over Zambia on August 17, noting that there were no incidents that could attract sanctions from CAF.
He expressed optimism that this clean record will boost Kenya’s case for a full-capacity crowd on Friday.
To ease congestion, the government has also expanded fan zones in Nairobi from 10 to 13. New locations have been added in Ruiru, Camp Toyoyo in Dagoretti, and Babadogo, allowing more Kenyans to follow the action from safe public spaces.
Ticket sales, however, have faced challenges. The online system crashed shortly after tickets went live on Tuesday, August 19, leaving many fans stranded.
CAF has promised to resolve the glitches and announce improved access soon. Ticket prices have also been adjusted: regular tickets are now Ksh 250, VIP tickets remain Ksh 500, while VVIP tickets cost Ksh 1,000.
With the Harambee Stars enjoying strong momentum, excitement across the country is high.
If CAF approves the appeal, Kasarani could be packed to capacity, offering Kenya the full roar of the 12th man as the team battles Madagascar for a place in the semifinals.
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