Motsepe counting on Ruto's word as preps for CHAN enter crucial stage

Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Dr. Patrice Motsepe has lauded the progress Kenya has made in preparations for African Nations Championship (CHAN), set to kickoff on February 1 next year.

Speaking to journalists after inspecting the ongoing renovations at Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, Motsepe said assurances by President William Ruto who he met earlier Frifay have left CAF in no doubt Kenya will host a successful event.

Motsepe praised the Head of State, saying his word gives him confidence of Kenya's commitment to hosting the tournament.

“I was in Tanzania yesterday (Thursday) and I must say I'm so impressed by their progress. My deepest gratitude on behalf of all African countries goes out to President William Ruto for the level of commitment and passion he has shown in ensuring Kenya hosts CHAN.

“Today is a manifestation and reconfirmation that the faith and trust we all have in him and the country is well placed,” Motsepe said.

He acknowledged the challenges Kenya is facing to beat the deadline and be ready to host CHAN in February next year, but still remained optimistic.

“Like in any huge undertaking, even in the World Cup, there will always be challenges. But even with a challenge, huge progress has been made, and I am confident that the next time I’ll be here will be for CHAN.

“With over 19 countries and media, I'm confident that this will be the most successful CHAN in history,” he added.

Kenya won the bid to co-host the tournament with neighbours Tanzania and Uganda, in what is viewed as a rehearsal for hosting the biggest African football extravaganza AFCON, in 2027 by the three nations.

On his part, Ruto said that the country will be ready to host the continental showpiece.

“Kenya is pulling out all the stops to be ready to host the African Nations Championships (CHAN) in February 2025. I thank the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for their confidence in our country’s ability to host the games,” the president stated.

Outgoing Sports Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, is equally optimistic.

“I want to assure CAF, and I want to assure Kenyans, that we will be ready to host CHAN. We are putting everything in place; we are burning the midnight oil and mobilizing all resources to ensure that we host CHAN next year. The government is committed to ensuring that this happens.

“It’s true, we have a lot of work to do, and that is why this LOC has a very huge responsibility. Even if it means working night and day, we have to meet the obligations that have been set. What we are going to do, especially with Kasarani, is we will complete the crucial aspects of the facility like the playing surface, dressing room, and stands,” Murkomen said.

FKF president Hussein Mohammed was grateful for the support showed so far by the Kenyan government and CAF, saying the mission is to host a memorable tournament.

However, there was no specific deadline set for Kenya, while it is clear the initial deadline of December 31 2024 is impossible to beat.