The government has announced six official fan zones in Nairobi ahead of Harambee Stars’ crucial Group A African Nations Championship (CHAN) match against Zambia.
This comes after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) reduced the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani stadium capacity by 40 per cent, limiting attendance to 27,000 fans.
To ensure that more supporters can safely watch the game, the government designated specific areas around the city where fans can gather and enjoy the live action.
Among the locations, Uhuru Park will host fans in a special section set aside for the match on Sunday, August 17.
This central location is expected to draw many supporters who want to experience the game atmosphere without being inside the stadium.
Lucky Summer, particularly the Ngomongo area behind Kasarani Stadium, has been designated as another fan zone. Fans from nearby neighborhoods can gather there to watch the match live and join in the celebrations.
Dandora Stadium has also been included as a venue for supporters to enjoy the game.
This stadium is known for hosting local sporting events and will provide a safe and organized environment for fans.
Utalii, specifically the Stima Club section, has been prepared to accommodate football enthusiasts who want to watch the Harambee Stars take on Zambia together.
Jacaranda Grounds is another area where fans can watch the match, offering residents of the surrounding communities an accessible place to enjoy the event.
Kibera DC Grounds has also been set aside for local supporters, allowing fans from one of Nairobi’s largest neighborhoods to participate in the excitement safely and comfortably.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya announced the move on Wednesday, August 13, after a meeting with security stakeholders, including Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.
Mvurya emphasized that the fan zones were selected in strategic neighborhoods to give supporters an experience as close as possible to being inside the stadium.
He assured the public that all measures have been taken to ensure safety, security, and proper management of the gatherings at these locations.
The government hopes to encourage a communal atmosphere where fans can celebrate, cheer, and support the Harambee Stars while avoiding overcrowding at Kasarani Stadium.
The initiative highlights efforts to balance the passion of football supporters with the safety regulations imposed by CAF, ensuring that the match day remains lively, organized, and enjoyable for everyone in Nairobi.
This arrangement allows thousands of Kenyans to come together and experience the excitement of international football while maintaining public safety, giving fans a unique opportunity to connect and celebrate their team beyond the stadium walls.
