CAF Imposes Restrictions on Kenya After Stadium Incidents

CAF Responds to Security Failures at CHAN 2024 in Kenya

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed strict measures on Kenya following repeated security lapses at the Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani, during the ongoing TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. These actions come amid mounting concerns about the safety of players, officials, and supporters after a series of troubling incidents during Kenya’s home fixtures.

Details of the Security Breaches at Kasarani Stadium

Multiple breaches of security protocols have marred the tournament at Kasarani Stadium. Among the most serious are episodes where large groups of fans stormed the gates without tickets, overwhelmed perimeter fences, and created chaos at exit points. Security officers struggled to regain control, leading to dangerous overcrowding and panic.

The situation escalated further during the Kenya vs. Morocco match on August 10, 2025. Reports confirmed that authorities deployed tear gas and flash grenades to disperse unruly crowds. Even more alarming, live ammunition was reportedly fired near spectators and stadium staff. In addition, violent confrontations erupted, with some individuals hurling stones at security personnel, severely undermining the safety of everyone present.

CAF’s Immediate Sanctions and Stadium Restrictions

CAF has responded by dramatically reducing stadium capacity and tightening entry requirements at Kasarani. The stadium, which can accommodate between 48,000 and 60,000 spectators, will now be limited to just 27,000 fans—representing only 60% of its maximum capacity. This move is intended to prevent overcrowding and give security personnel a better chance to maintain order.

Another significant measure is the enforcement of electronic-only ticketing. From now on, only fans with electronic tickets will be allowed entry. Thermal paper tickets are expressly forbidden, a step aimed at minimizing ticket fraud and unauthorized entry. These changes are immediate and will remain in place for the rest of Kenya’s fixtures in the tournament.

Investigations and Further Measures Underway

CAF has not stopped at stadium restrictions. The confederation has referred the matter to relevant investigative authorities to determine accountability and recommend further actions. Discussions are ongoing between CAF, the Local Organizing Committee, and the Kenyan government to ensure that all safety and security protocols are strictly observed moving forward.

CAF has issued a clear warning: if security breaches persist, Kenya risks having its remaining matches relocated from Kasarani Stadium to another venue. This would be a significant setback for the national team, which has benefitted from enthusiastic home support throughout the competition.

Impact on Kenya’s National Team and Supporters

The sanctions are a considerable blow to the Harambee Stars and their fans. The reduced capacity will limit the vocal support that the team has enjoyed, potentially affecting their performance on the pitch. The decision also comes on the heels of a previous sanction—a fine of nearly $20,000 imposed on Kenya for security lapses during their opening match on August 3.

For supporters, the new electronic ticketing system will require adjustments. Fans must ensure they have valid, electronic tickets before arriving at the stadium. Those with thermal or paper tickets will be denied entry, and security checks are expected to be more stringent at all access points.

Ongoing Tournament and Upcoming Fixtures

Despite the controversy, the CHAN 2024 tournament continues as scheduled. Group D matches are set for August 12, with defending champions Senegal facing Congo, and Sudan taking on Nigeria. These fixtures are critical for group standings and are expected to draw significant attention from fans across the continent.

The tournament’s integrity and the safety of its participants remain paramount for CAF. Ensuring secure, well-managed matches is essential not only for the success of CHAN 2024 but also for Kenya’s reputation as a capable host of major international sporting events.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Stadium Security in Africa

The incidents at Kasarani have highlighted the ongoing challenges of stadium security in Africa. CAF’s swift response underscores the importance of robust safety measures and the need for collaboration between football authorities, local organizers, and governments. These events may prompt a reassessment of security protocols at major venues across the continent, with electronic ticketing and strict capacity controls becoming the new standard.

Kenya’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for other host nations. With major tournaments attracting large, passionate crowds, the margin for error is slim. The priority must always be the safety of players, officials, and fans.

Conclusion

CAF’s sanctions on Kenya are a direct response to serious lapses in stadium security during CHAN 2024. The immediate reduction in stadium capacity, the shift to electronic ticketing, and the threat of match relocation reflect the gravity of the situation. As investigations continue and the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Kenya to see how it addresses these challenges and restores confidence in its ability to host international football events safely.