Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are in the final stages of confirming hosting venues for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), with decisive announcements on the tournament’s key sites expected by next Tuesday.
The three East African nations, co-hosting the continental tournament scheduled for August 2025, are set to finalize locations for the opening and closing ceremonies, along with venues for the first, second, and third-place playoff matches.
This development follows a high-level virtual inter-ministerial meeting chaired by Confederation of African Football (CAF) Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba. The session marked a major step in CAF’s preparations to ensure the joint bid delivers a seamless and world-class championship.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, reaffirmed the country’s readiness during the meeting, citing significant infrastructural investment and full compliance with CAF requirements.
“Our earmarked venues meet the required standards and are ready to support the extensive logistical operations needed for a world-class event,” Mvurya said, also confirming that all hosting rights fees have been settled.
Mvurya emphasized a multi-agency coordination strategy, bringing together various government departments under a unified local organizing committee. He pointed to Kenya’s recent successful hosting of the CHAN draws as proof of the nation’s capacity to deliver.
“Kenya is committed to working closely with CAF to deliver a stellar and memorable tournament experience,” he added.
Echoing these remarks, Uganda’s Minister of State for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, and Tanzania’s Deputy Minister for Culture, Arts, and Sports, Hon. Hamisi Mwinjuma, reaffirmed their countries’ full commitment to the joint venture. Both officials stressed the importance of regional unity and coordination.
Key cross-border initiatives, including a proposed “PAMOJA Visa” a special multiple-entry pass , were discussed to ensure smooth movement of players, officials, and fans. The proposal is coupled with plans for a harmonized regional security strategy.
CAF Secretary General Mosengo-Omba underscored the urgency of finalizing arrangements.
“Confirmation of venues and logistics will allow CAF’s advance teams to commence on-the-ground preparations for the August championship,” he said. “CAF is fully committed to supporting Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in turning this historic joint bid into a resounding success.”
CHAN 2025 marks a significant moment for regional sports diplomacy, aiming to showcase not only East Africa’s organizational prowess but also its potential as a united front in African football development.
