The Kenya Harambee Stars are performing impressively at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), topping Group A with seven points from three matches. However, concerns over security and crowd management have overshadowed their success. CAF, the continental football governing body, has taken decisive action to address these issues.
On Monday, CAF issued a statement citing repeated violations of stadium regulations, particularly regarding crowd access and control at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani. Despite warnings and a suspended fine issued after Kenya's first two matches against DR Congo and Angola, similar incidents persisted in their recent game against Morocco. Fans without tickets forcibly entered the stadium, leading to chaos.
CAF has now imposed immediate measures for Kenya's upcoming fixtures. These include reducing the stadium capacity from 60,000 to 27,000 and mandating the use of electronic tickets, with thermal tickets banned. The organization has also tasked the CHAN 2024 Local Organizing Committee and the Kenyan government with launching a public awareness campaign to educate fans on safety protocols and entry requirements.
Kenya is set to face Zambia in their final group stage match on Sunday. A single point could secure their place in the quarterfinals. The team's performance on the pitch, however, must now be matched by improvements in stadium management to avoid further disciplinary action from CAF.
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