- Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are working on finalizing venues for CHAN 2025.
- Sports Ministers from the three nations will wrap up venue talks by next Tuesday.
- Kenya has confirmed readiness, citing solid infrastructure and teamwork.
- A special “PAMOJA Visa” is under discussion to ease movement across borders.
- CAF has pledged full support to ensure the joint bid is successful.
Preparations are in high gear as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania prepare to confirm venues for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which kicks off in August. Key decisions are expected by next week as Sports Ministers from the three countries meet to finalize sites for the opening, closing, and final matches.
This follows a high-level virtual meeting chaired by CAF Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba, which brought together ministers from the region to assess readiness and logistics.
Kenya Confirms Full Readiness
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Hon. Salim Mvurya, confirmed that Kenya has already paid its hosting rights and is fully set for the event. He noted that the country’s sports venues meet CAF’s required standards and highlighted the strength of Kenya’s planning systems.
“We’ve already cleared the hosting rights and our stadiums are ready to handle such a big tournament,” CS Mvurya affirmed.
Coordinated Effort by Multiple Agencies
CS Mvurya added that a joint task force involving various government arms is working behind the scenes to ensure Kenya delivers a top-level experience. He pointed out that the same coordinated approach was used successfully during the CHAN draw held earlier.
“We’re using a multi-agency system that follows CAF’s standards. Our goal is to deliver a smooth and unforgettable event,” he said.
Uganda and Tanzania Show Equal Commitment
Uganda’s Sports Minister Hon. Peter Ogwang and Tanzania’s Deputy Minister for Culture, Arts and Sports Hon. Hamisi Mwinjuma also expressed confidence in their preparations. Both assured CAF of their commitment to ensure the tournament runs seamlessly in all three countries.
PAMOJA Visa Under Consideration
One of the key proposals during the discussions was the creation of a “PAMOJA Visa,” which would allow players, officials, and fans to travel easily across the three host countries. The plan also includes a joint security strategy to maintain safety and order throughout the tournament period.
CAF Urges Swift Finalization
CAF Secretary General Mosengo-Omba underscored the need to wrap up the venue confirmations soon so that CAF’s technical teams can begin on-site preparations. He applauded the spirit of unity between the three countries and encouraged them to continue working together.
“Finalizing venues is essential so our team can start groundwork for the August event. CAF is here to support this historic project all the way,” he stated.
A Symbol of Regional Unity
CHAN 2025 will be more than just a football event. For Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, it is a chance to display East Africa’s unity, strength, and shared ambitions. The tournament promises not only thrilling matches but also a lasting legacy for African football and cooperation.
