The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a strict new directive on Kenyan football, limiting fan attendance for the upcoming Kenya vs Zambia match to a maximum of 27,000 spectators.
The decision follows a series of serious security incidents that have marred recent matches at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The new capacity limit, which represents just 60% of the stadium's total capacity, is a direct response to what CAF has called repeated security lapses during the CHAN tournament.
“Following repeated and serious security lapses during Kenya's home matches at Kasarani Stadium, CAF has decided to impose immediate measures for upcoming fixtures in Kasarani involving the Host Nation,” part of the letter read.
READ ALSO: Why CAF Has Reportedly Halted Ticket Sales for Kenya's Kasarani Matches
This move comes as a blow to fans who were hoping to pack the stadium to cheer on the Harambee Stars.
CAF's Urgent Directive
An internal email from CAF, which has been circulated online, outlines the specific directives that the Host Nation must follow. It makes it clear that the governing body is taking the safety of spectators and staff very seriously.
The email explicitly states the new rules:
"Capacity restriction: Maximum 60% of stadium capacity (27,000 tickets). Ticketing: Entry strictly limited to electronic ticket holders; thermal tickets prohibited."
This directive also places a renewed emphasis on public accountability and a media campaign to reinforce safety protocols.
“LOC and government to launch a public media campaign reinforcing safety protocols and entry requirements.”
The Reason for the Sanctions
The decision to limit fan numbers was triggered by a list of major security lapses during previous matches.
These included the overrunning of stadium gates by ticketless spectators and the distribution of counterfeit physical tickets.
Other serious incidents were also noted, such as a crowd control failure that led to uncontrolled access through multiple gates.
There were also reports of violence, including stone-throwing, and the use of tear gas and flash grenades. This resulted in panic and posed what CAF described as "unacceptable risks to spectators, staff, and the integrity of the tournament."
Fan Frustration Over Tickets
The CAF directive has created widespread confusion and frustration among Kenyan fans.
Prior to the official announcement, online ticket sales were suddenly halted, and tickets for the Kenya vs Zambia match disappeared from the Mookh Africa website.
Fans took to social media to vent their frustration, with many questioning the ticketing process.
Screenshots of conversations and posts showed that while some tickets were briefly available, others were marked as "sold out" long before the match date, leading to accusations of backdoor sales.
ALSO READ:CAF Fines Kenya Ksh2.6 Million – Here’s Why
This new directive from CAF, which comes with a warning of "more serious sanctions" for non-compliance, now gives clarity to the situation.
Other CAF Fines
This is not the first time CAF has taken action against Kenyan football over security concerns.
Just last week, CAF fined Kenya KSh 2.6 million following similar security breaches during the opening CHAN 2024 Group A match against DR Congo.
The incidents in that match included fans breaking a security barrier and entering the stadium with drums and whistles, which violates CAF regulations.
Part of the fine, KSh 320,000, was suspended on the condition that Kenya does not repeat the violations.
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