The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that only 27,000 fans will be allowed to attend the Zambia vs Kenya African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarter-final on Sunday, August 17 at Kasarani Stadium.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 11, CAF said the decision follows serious security lapses during the Kenya vs Morocco match on Sunday, August 10 at the same venue.
Under the new directive, only electronic ticket holders will be admitted, with thermal tickets prohibited. The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and the government will also roll out a public media campaign to reinforce safety protocols and entry requirements.
“CAF expects full and immediate compliance with these directives. Failure to implement them may result in more serious sanctions, including the consideration of alternative venues for future Host Team matches,” the statement warned.
Security Failures Listed by CAF
CAF cited multiple incidents from the Morocco game, including:
Overrunning of stadium gates by ticketless fans and holders of physical tickets distributed by the government.
Breaches of the perimeter fence and loss of control at exit points.
Crowd control failure at Ngomongo roundabout, allowing uncontrolled access through multiple gates.
Use of tear gas, flash grenades, and reports of live ammunition near spectators and staff.
Violent incidents, including stone-throwing at security personnel.
Unsafe vehicle movements in spectator areas.
Inadequate police response despite repeated calls for intervention.
No official medical incident reports despite injuries.
Insufficient communication tools and lack of CCTV coverage at critical entry points.
CAF noted that despite previous warnings and sanctions, Kenya’s organizers have not fully complied with tournament security requirements.
The confederation stressed that the measures aim to protect the integrity of the competition, ensure fan safety, and maintain confidence in Kenya’s ability to host.
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