CAF Cuts Kasarani Capacity to 27,000 Over Security Concerns, Warns of Heavy Sanctions

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued a stern warning to Kenya’s CHAN 2024 Local Organizing Committee (LOC), introducing strict measures for upcoming CHAN 2024 fixtures involving Harambee Stars at Kasarani Stadium.

In a letter to the LOC, CAF expressed dissatisfaction over repeated lapses in match-day security despite multiple warnings and previous sanctions. The continental body noted that Kenya has failed to fully implement measures to control ticketless spectators, ensure effective crowd management, and comply with CAF’s security requirements.

According to CAF, Harambee Stars’ recent home matches have been marred by serious safety breaches, including crowds overrunning stadium gates, the use of tear gas, and incidents of stoning security personnel — situations that caused panic among fans at Kasarani.

CAF further criticized the LOC for failing to submit medical reports on injured individuals and for lacking adequate CCTV coverage in critical sections of the stadium.

“These incidents present unacceptable risks to spectators, staff, and the integrity of the tournament,” CAF said in the letter.

As a result, CAF has mandated a series of new measures for all upcoming Harambee Stars home matches at Kasarani:

Reduced capacity — Attendance will be capped at 60% of Kasarani’s total capacity, limiting the number of fans to approximately 27,000.

Electronic tickets only — Entry will be strictly limited to holders of e-tickets, with thermal paper tickets banned with immediate effect.

Public safety campaign — The LOC and the Kenyan government must launch a public media campaign to promote safety protocols and entry requirements.

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CAF has made it clear that the new directives are non-negotiable.

“CAF expects full and immediate compliance of all the directives. Failure to do so will result in more serious sanctions, which may include consideration of alternative venues for future matches for the host team (Harambee Stars),” the body warned.

The decision comes as a blow to local football fans eager to pack the stadium for the national team’s matches, but CAF insists that safety and tournament integrity remain the top priority.