The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved Kenya’s appeal to increase stadium attendance at the Moi International Sports Centre for the Kenya vs Madagascar quarter-final match.
In a statement on Thursday, August 21, a source within the Ministry of Sports confirmed that CAF had agreed to revise the capacity limit to 80 percent, allowing up to 36,000 fans in the stadium.
"The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has granted a major reprieve to Kenya by revising stadium attendance to 80%, translating to 36,000 tickets," the source confirmed.
The government has already moved to facilitate the new arrangements with ticketing systems being updated to accommodate the extra demand.
"Sports Cabinet Secretary Hon. Salim Mvurya has confirmed that the ticketing portal is now open to accommodate the additional numbers, ensuring more fans can rally behind the Harambee Stars in the ongoing CHAN 2024 tournament," the source added.
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On Wednesday, August 20, Mvurya confirmed that Kenya was pushing for an increase in stadium attendance for the CHAN match.
In a statement, the CS said the appeal followed an incident-free clash between Kenya and Zambia at Kasarani on Sunday, August 17.
Mvurya revealed that the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) had already engaged CAF requesting a review of the current 60 percent stadium capacity limit.
"FKF has already engaged CAF to have the numbers revised; however, we await CAF’s response and will communicate any updates in due course," he said.
On Monday, August 11, CAF announced that only 27,000 fans would be allowed to attend matches at the Moi International Sports Centre following several security lapses during the Kenya vs Morocco game on Sunday, August 10.
Other than capacity restrictions, a strict ticketing policy allowing entry only to electronic ticket holders will be observed, with thermal tickets being prohibited.
Additionally, CAF said the LOC and the government will launch 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, which may include the consideration of alternative venues for future matches of the Host Team.
"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," CAF said at the time.
