CHAN: CAF reaffirms Kenya will host tourney despite slow stadia progress

Speaking during a press conference held at Talanta Plaza in Nairobi, the CAF officials, led by Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba, noted that Kenya is making significant progress in the matter.

“If you compare the progress made since we were here last year, you can see serious strides made so far.” He noted. 

However, with the competition approaching quickly, concerns are still mounting over the readiness of Kenya’s key stadiums slated to host matches alongside Kenya and Tanzania.

A recent visit to Moi International Sports Centre reveals that although progress has been made, significant work remains.

A close look at key features indicates that the scoreboard is in need of repair, sprinkler systems require adjustments, and the rearrangement of the seats has led to the seat capacity dropping.

At Nyayo Stadium, however, the situation is dire. The seats offer little protection from the weather, with the canopy still under construction, meaning the fans will endure the scorching sun and get drenched in the rain if the roofing works are not completed in time.

The Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Salim Mvurya, assured Kenyans that the work and the preparations will be completed in time.

He added that the construction also aims to introduce state-of-the-art electronic systems like VAR.

“We are on course to have the tournament held at the agreed time. Right now we are working on the electronic system, including the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) systems.” 

CAF secretary general Veron Mosengo-Omba has stated that Kenya has made significant improvements since the last inspection.

He said that the organization will aid Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in order to prepare an interesting tournament ahead.

As the clock ticks down, pressure is mounting for urgent action to ensure that the venues are ready to welcome fans and players for this prestigious continental tournament.