CAF SLASHES KASARANI STADIUM CAPACITY TO 27,000 DURING HARAMBEE STARS VS ZAMBIA MATCH

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has limited attendance at Kenya’s home matches at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, to 27,000 spectators, 60% of the stadium’s full capacity. This decision comes in response to ongoing and severe security lapses witnessed during recent CHAN 2024 matches, particularly during the Harambee Stars’ fixture against Morocco on Sunday. CAF’s latest directive follows multiple warnings and a Sh2.5 million fine issued to Kenya over similar security failings during the CHAN 2024 opener against DRC on August 3, 2025. Despite prior alerts, necessary improvements were not made, prompting CAF to take further action to protect both fans and the integrity of the tournament.

In a statement released on Monday, CAF highlighted a series of safety violations. These includes unauthorized fans entering the stadium, the misuse of government issued paper tickets, breaches of perimeter fences, and overwhelmed security personnel at exit points. The situation was further aggravated by poor crowd management at the Ngomongo roundabout, allowing uncontrolled access through multiple gates. Other serious incidents included police use of tear gas and flash grenades, allegations of live ammunition being fired near spectators and staff, stone throwing at security officials, limited police intervention, and lack of medical incident reporting.

 To address these issues, CAF has imposed a strict cap of 27,000 tickets per match, limited only to electronic ticket holders. Thermal paper tickets are now prohibited. Furthermore, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and the Kenyan government are required to launch a public awareness campaign to educate fans on the new safety measures and entry requirements. CAF has made it clear that these directives must be implemented immediately. Non-compliance could result in more severe consequences including the relocation of Kenya’s future home matches to alternative venues.