Cant learn, wont learn: Kenya loses CHAN hosting rights

The Confederation of Africa on Saturday stripped Kenya of the rights to host the 2018 African Nation Championship (Chan).

In the same development, CAF has opened doors for interested countries to present fresh bids to host the event within the next 10 days.

In a meeting of Caf’s Football Executive Committee held in Accra, Ghana, the continental soccer body made the tough decision following Kenya’s delay in completing the construction of the stadia –the key facilities for the January football showpiece.

This comes just two days after the Government of Kenya approved a budget of  Ksh. 4.2 billion for Chan preparation.

Kenya won the nod to host the biennials second-tier football competition slightly over three years ago but work at earmarked facilities has been dragging at a snail’s pace.

Caf’s Inspection team were in the country last week to assess progress but were not impressed with works at the Kipchoge Keino Stadium, the Kinoru Stadium, the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos, and the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.

Catch 22 – situation

It’s only the 60,000seater Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani that was given the nod though inspectors had warmed the local organizing committee to have the stadium fitted with seats.

The decision by Caf now puts Kenya to shame and in a catch 22- situation.

Kenya is likely to attract heavy fines from Caf for failing to meet her end of the bargain.

This development evokes Kenya’s failed attempt to host the African Cup of Nation finals in 1996 after failing to build the necessary stadia, leaving the continental football body with no choice but to turn to South Africa as an alternative hosts.