Kenya has been hit with a Ksh 2.5 million fine by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following multiple security lapses during the CHAN 2024 Group A opener between Harambee Stars and DR Congo at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Sunday, August 3.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) was found guilty of violating CAF Disciplinary Code Articles 82 and 83, and several safety protocols. According to an official report by CAF’s Security Officer, the situation at the stadium posed serious safety threats to fans, staff, and VIP guests.
The report detailed the following major security breaches:
A stampede at Gate 11 due to poor crowd control.
Unauthorized access to restricted Public Security Areas.
A motorcycle dangerously navigating through dense crowds.
Fires lit by fans behind Block 18.
State security officers blocking CAF staff, including a South African presidential security officer, from entering the VVIP section.
CAF imposed the following fines on FKF:
Ksh 644,500 (USD 5,000) for the stampede and unauthorized entry.
Ksh 1,289,000 (USD 10,000) for obstructing and assaulting CAF staff and guests.
An official warning for stadium fires behind the stands.
All fines must be paid within 60 days. In a separate case, FKF was also fined Ksh 644,500 (USD 5,000) for previous issues during the Morocco vs Angola match.
However, half of this amount is suspended, provided there are no further violations for the remainder of the tournament.
These incidents have raised serious concerns over Kenya’s capacity to manage security at major international sporting events. With Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania co-hosting CHAN 2024, such lapses could risk future hosting opportunities and tarnish the nation’s international reputation.
Local Organizing Committee (LOC) Chair Nicholas Musonye had earlier warned of sanctions if Kenya failed to meet CAF’s strict guidelines. He urged fans and authorities to maintain order and responsibility throughout the tournament.
In related news, Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) was fined USD 10,000 after similar crowd control issues during their CHAN 2024 fixture against Burkina Faso at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
Kenya will face Angola in their second Group A match on Thursday at 7 PM at Kasarani. FKF will be under close CAF scrutiny to ensure there is no repeat of the earlier chaos.
