Uganda/Kenya: CAF Sanctions Kenya Again Over Crowd Trouble
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has once again penalized Kenya, co-host of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), due to recent crowd control failures. With longstanding issues concerning spectator safety, these measures aim to protect the integrity of the Championship as well as the well-being of fans.
Key Security Measures Implemented
CAF announced Monday that attendance at the Moi International Sports Center—also referred to as Kasarani Stadium—would be restricted to 27,000 fans, significantly below its 48,000 capacity. Only holders of electronic tickets will be permitted entry for the upcoming Group A match against Zambia, diminishing the risk of overcrowding and chaos associated with physical tickets.
Recent security breaches have raised concerns for the governing body, which has warned that future matches may be relocated if these control issues persist. CAF emphasized the urgency of these actions: “We trust these measures will be applied swiftly to protect competition’s integrity, ensure fan safety, and uphold confidence in Kenya’s commitment to the tournament.”
A Pattern of Violations
These sanctions come on the heels of Kenya’s earlier fine of nearly 20,000 U.S. dollars for security lapses during the opening match against DR Congo. Disturbing incidents—including uncontrolled crowd movements, faulty exit control, and even the use of tear gas—were reported, compromising the safety of attendees.
CAF specifically noted serious lapses in security protocols. Ticketless supporters overwhelmed stadium gates, and incidents of violence, including stone-throwing at security personnel, further highlighted the need for more stringent measures. Inadequate communication tools and a lack of CCTV coverage at crucial entry points were also criticized.
Moving Forward: Strategies for Improvement
To avoid further sanctions, it’s crucial for Kenyan organizers to enhance crowd control strategies. Implementing robust security protocols, increasing staff training, and investing in modern surveillance technology will be instrumental. Communication among event staff must also improve to ensure swift responses to any emergent crowd issues.
In light of these recent challenges, the Kenyan Football Federation must prioritize spectator safety and work closely with CAF to regain confidence in their ability to host large events. As fans look forward to upcoming matches, it’s essential for organizers to maintain a focus on security and operational integrity.
For fans interested in upcoming matches, securing electronic tickets early and following local news for security updates will be vital. As the tournament progresses, maintaining discipline will not only protect the reputation of Kenyan football but ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
