Harambee Stars fans at The Moi International Sports center Kasarani cheer the team against Morocco, CHAN 24 match. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]
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The government has designated six official fan zones across Nairobi to give Harambee Stars supporters a safe and lively match day experience ahead of Sunday’s clash with Zambia.
The zones will be located at Uhuru Park (CBD), Lakisama–Ngomongo area behind Kasarani Stadium, Dandora Stadium, Utalii (Stima Club), Jacaranda Grounds, and Kibera DC Grounds.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said the move is meant to ease crowd pressure at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, while bringing the stadium atmosphere closer to neighbourhoods.
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“These zones will allow fans to watch the match on large screens in a safe, well-managed environment, while easing crowd pressure on Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. They will bring the stadium atmosphere closer to the people while helping us manage attendance at Kasarani in line with CAF’s requirements,” he said in a statement.
The move comes hours after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) fined Kenya Sh6.5 million for multiple security breaches during the Kenya-Morocco qualifier on Sunday, August 10.
CAF warned that repeated violations could see Kenya’s home matches moved to other venues.
Following a high-level meeting with CAF, FKF, the Local Organizing Committee, and the National Police Service, the government announced tighter security measures for Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums.
These include thorough checks at entry points, ticket scanner verification, and extra security personnel inside and around the stadium.
Mvurya said the government had received reports of counterfeit ticket circulation and has instructed the ticketing office to implement stricter authentication.
“Only genuine ticket holders will gain access to the stadiums,” said Mvurya, adding: “These measures are aimed at protecting fans from fraud, maintaining order at the venue, and upholding the integrity of the tournament in line with CAF’s directives.”
The CS also urged fans to match their passion with discipline and adherence to regulations.
He appealed to football supporters across the country to help Kenya comply with international standards, avoid sanctions, and protect its hosting reputation.
“We understand the excitement and joy following Harambee Stars’ performance, but we must exercise restraint and avoid actions that contravene CAF regulations. That is the highest form of patriotism,” he said.