CHAN 2024: Football fans association calls for ticketing transparency

Kenya Fans Association chairman Shem Okattah during Harambee Stars match against Morocco. [Courtesy, KFA]

Football lovers across the country are now calling for ticketing transparency ahead of Kenya's match against Zambia on Sunday.

Through the Kenya Fans Association, the fans are demanding an explanation from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) over the ticketing controversy in which CHAN 2024 match tickets appeared to sell out before being officially released to the public.

The associations chairperson Shem Okottah said the ticketing mess is to blame for security breaches in the stadium that has seen Kenya punished.

In a statement to newsrooms, Mr Okottah said, "Fans are the lifeblood of the game. They deserve a transparent process, fair access to tickets, and clear communication on availability."

His sentiments come a day after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) issued strict directives for upcoming fixtures at Kasarani Stadium following a series of security lapses during Kenya's recent home matches.

In a detailed statement, CAF imposed measures for upcoming Kenya home matches at the stadium, citing unacceptable risk to spectators, staff, and the integrity of the tournament.

"CAF is mandating a maximum 60 per cent of stadium capacity (27000 tickets). Entry strictly limited to electronic ticket holders; thermal tickets prohibited," read the statement in part.

The local organising committee, together with the government, has also been directed to launch a public awareness campaign on safety protocols and entry requirements.

Mr Okattah said there is urgent need for KFF and planners to come up with alternatives to manage the crowds.

"We have observed serious operational failures including slow ticket verification causing excessive queues, too few entry points, creating dangerous congestion and the use of tear gas by police, triggering panic," he said.

While insisting that these gaps not only exclude loyal football fans, Okattah said it also exposes those who have come to unnecessary risks and injuries.

He said as a result, the association is taking proactive steps to improve the mat chday experience including advanced talks with Nairobi County Government to set up official fan zones to discourage non-ticket holders from crowding around Kasarani Stadium.

"We shall be offering trained volunteers to assist stadium officials in making the spectator experience safe, smooth, and memorable and providing expert insights to CAF, FKF, and local organisers on how to salvage Kenya's football reputation for the remainder of CHAN 2024," he said.

Mr Okattah further lauded President William Ruto for his incentives and motivation to the Harambee Stars team saying it will play a key role in encouraging the team members to bring forth their best.

Ruto on Monday said a win against Zambia this coming Sunday will earn each player some Sh2.5 million.

According to the head of State, if the team proceeds to the quarter-finals, each player will be gifted an extra Sh1 million and a two-bedroom affordable housing unit in a location of their choice.

So far the players have already bagged Sh1 million each after winning the opening match against Democratic Republic of Congo and another Sh500, 000 each following a draw with Angola.

They each won another Sh1 million each after beating the tournament's favourite team Morroco on Sunday at Kasarani Stadium.

Kenya is co-hosting the CHAN 2024 alongside Uganda and Tanzania under the 'Pamoja' bid, in a historic opportunity to showcase East Africa's football passion.