CAF Slaps Kenya with Hefty Fine of Ksh6.47 Million

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued a hefty financial penalty to the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).

The disciplinary board has fined Kenya USD 50,000 [Ksh6.47 Million] following multiple safety and security breaches during the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 at Kasarani stadium.

The latest fine is a significant blow to the local football federation, which is grappling with a series of penalties for crowd control issues during the tournament.

The Disciplinary Board’s Verdict

CAF’s disciplinary board met to review incidents from the match between Kenya and Morocco at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The board found Kenya guilty of several violations.

READ ALSO: Why CAF Will Only Allow 27K Kenyan Fans in Kasarani for Kenya Vs Zambia

A detailed report by a CAF Security Officer highlighted numerous breaches. These included a stampede at one of the stadium gates, unauthorised access to restricted areas, and fans lighting flares in the stands.

A Stern Warning for the Future

In addition to the financial penalty, CAF issued a strong warning. The organisation cautioned that if security and safety requirements are not met consistently, Kenya's national team matches could be relocated to a different country.

“Kenya was warned that continued failure to meet CAF safety and security requirements may lead to the relocation of Kenya’s National Team matches to an alternative venue,” part of CAF’s letter read.

CAF's official communique advised the FKF to increase security measures by deploying sufficient personnel within the perimeter of the stadium as well as adhering to the road closures on match days.

A Pattern of Violations

This is not the first time Kenya has faced sanctions during this tournament. The FKF was previously fined KSh 2.5 million (approximately USD 20,000) for security lapses in the opening match against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

ALSO READ: CAF Fines Kenya Ksh2.6 Million – Here’s Why

During that game, fans reportedly broke down a security barrier and brought drums and whistles into the stadium, which is against CAF regulations. The recent violations against Morocco have been deemed even more serious.

Mounting Concerns and Stadium Restrictions

The series of fines has raised significant concerns for the FKF, putting a severe financial strain on the federation. FKF president Hussein Mohammed has expressed his frustration with the situation.

"We are deeply troubled by the consistent fines following every match," he said. "This situation places a significant financial strain on the federation."

As a result of the ongoing issues, CAF has announced a reduction in stadium capacity for the upcoming Kenya vs. Zambia match. The capacity has been restricted to 60%, allowing only 27,000 fans into Kasarani.

These repeated incidents could also cast a shadow over Kenya's ability to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.