CHAN 2024: Kenya fined Ksh 2.5million over security breaches at Kasarani

The continental football governing body slapped Football Kenya Federation (FKF) with a total fine of Ksh 2.5million (USD 20,000) on Wednesday, warning of more sanctions should Kenya’s football fanatics violate strict CAF guidelines during the month-long competition being co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

According to the official report from the CAF Security Officer, FKF was found guilty of breaching Articles 82 and 83 of the CAF Disciplinary Code and multiple safety regulations after chaotic scenes unfolded during the high-profile encounter that saw Kenya defeat DRC 1-0.

‎‎The CAF Security Officer’s report highlighted serious lapses, including a stampede at entry Gate 11, unauthorized access to restricted Public Security Areas (PSA), and a motorcycle dangerously weaving through the crowd.

‎Fans also ignited fires behind the stands at Block 18, while State Security personnel reportedly denied CAF staff and protocol officers—including a member of the South African President’s Close Protection Unit—access to the VVIP area.

‎‎As a result, CAF imposed three penalties on FKF —Ksh 644,500 (USD 5,000) for the stampede and unauthorized entry, Ksh 1,289,000 (USD 10,000) for the assault and obstruction of CAF officials and guests, and an official warning over the stadium fires. All fines must be settled within 60 days.

‎‎In a separate disciplinary matter involving FKF from an earlier CHAN 2024 match between Morocco and Angola, CAF also levied a Ksh 644,500 (USD 5,000) fine, of which Ksh 322,250 (USD 2,500) is suspended on condition FKF avoids repeat offences during the remainder of the tournament.

‎‎These developments raise fresh concerns over Kenya’s safety and security management, especially as the national team prepares to face Angola on Thursday at 7 PM in their second Group A fixture at the same venue.

‎‎Local Organizing Committee (LOC) chair Nicholas Musonye had earlier warned of potential sanctions should FKF fall short of CAF protocols, stressing on Kenyans to be vigilant and responsible to avoid such shortcomings

‎‎Elsewhere, the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) was fined USD 10,000 after their fans breached security protocols during their match against Burkina Faso at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.