East Africa moves forward with hosting plans for CHAN 2025

Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy, and Sports, Hon. Salim Mvurya [Facebook]

Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are on track to finalise their hosting arrangements for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), with key discussions underway on venue selections and logistical preparations.

Set for August 2025, the tournament will feature opening and closing ceremonies, as well as crucial third-place and final matches, all hosted across these three nations.

A high-level virtual meeting, chaired by CAF Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba, brought together sports officials from the three countries. The goal: ensure that the infrastructure, security, and logistics are aligned to deliver a successful event. The countries' Sports Ministers are expected to conclude their deliberations by next Tuesday.

Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya, expressed confidence in Kenya's readiness.

"We have already paid the hosting rights for CHAN. Our earmarked venues meet the required standards and are ready to support the extensive logistical operations needed for such a world-class event," stated CS Mvurya," he stated. He also highlighted Kenya's investments in sports infrastructure and its comprehensive planning, integrating various government agencies into the organising efforts to ensure seamless execution.

"We have brought together multidisciplinary teams within our organising committees to adhere to CAF's guidelines, just as we successfully did during the CHAN draws. Kenya is committed to working closely with CAF to deliver a stellar and memorable tournament experience," Mvurya added. Similar sentiments of preparedness came from Uganda's Minister of State for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, and Tanzania's Deputy Minister for Culture, Arts, and Sports, Hon. Hamisi Mwinjuma. They underscored their nations' commitment to a smooth, joint-hosted event.

Part of the discussion focused on regional mobility and security measures, such as the proposed "PAMOJA Visa," designed to facilitate easier travel for players, officials, and fans across borders. This initiative aims to boost regional integration and simplify entry processes, fostering a festive and secure atmosphere.

Mosengo-Omba stressed the importance of confirming venues and logistical arrangements promptly.

"The confirmation of venues and logistics will enable our advance teams to commence on-the-ground preparations for the August championship. CAF is fully committed to supporting Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in turning this historic joint bid into a resounding success," he said.