CAF Fines Kenya Sh6.4 Million Over Security Breaches at Kasarani Stadium During CHAN

The cheers of football fans supporting Kenya’s Harambee Stars have been overshadowed by problems with crowd control and security during recent matches. 

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued fines and warnings after security issues at the African Nations Championship (CHAN), putting Kenya’s chance to host future football events in doubt. CAF has fined Kenya USD 50,000 (about Sh6.45 million) because of crowd troubles at Kasarani Stadium during Kenya’s win over Morocco. Fans entered restricted areas without permission, and there was disorder among the crowd, forcing police to use tear gas to control the situation. 

Similar problems happened earlier in the tournament during the game against DR Congo. CAF is not only giving fines but also setting new rules to improve safety. Stadiums will only be allowed to fill up to 60% of their capacity, and digital ticketing must be used to avoid fake tickets. Traditional thermal-printed tickets are now banned. The Local Organising Committee (LOC) must also inform fans about these new rules and encourage them to behave responsibly.

The FKF has asked fans to follow the rules and warns that if problems continue, Kenya could face more serious punishments, like having their matches moved to other countries. They stress the importance of fans only attending with real tickets.

The Kenyan government is working hard to fix these issues and regain CAF’s trust. Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has instructed FKF to create official fan zones around Nairobi where fans without tickets can watch the games safely. 

This idea came from a security meeting with CAF officials, police leaders, and government ministers. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen promised strict enforcement of the ticket rules, saying, “No unticketed fans will be allowed into Kasarani. This is for your safety and the country’s reputation.”

Morocco’s football federation was also fined USD 5,000 for bad behavior by their players.