Top Stadiums Hosting the 2024 CHAN Competition in East Africa

The 2024 African Nations Championship, which is also referred to as CHAN 2024 and the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship for sponsorship purposes, will be hosted in three countries for the first time: Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.

The CHAN 2024 competition is a major CAF competition, and these three East African countries will be working together to host it. Even though the final draw concluded in January 2025, CAF announced that the competition would be postponed till August 2025 for the sake of effective preparations and to allow for a final qualifying round.

The stadiums, which have been renovated and now meet FIFA and CAF standards, are the focal point of this article. Let’s take a closer look at the best stadiums that will be hosting the CHAN 2024.

5. Amaan Stadium – Zanzibar, Tanzania

Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar is capable of holding 15,000 people. Built with the Chinese government's aid in 1970, recent field improvements, newly laid turf, refurbished stands, and lighting upgrades show its readiness and preparation to host the high-profile CHAN competitions.

4. Nyayo National Stadium – Nairobi, Kenya

Nyayo National Stadium in Kenya is an 18,000-seater multipurpose stadium. The stadium is used for sporting activities like athletics, ceremonies, and swimming. Notably, the stadium was the host venue for the 2010 African Championships in Athletics.

Enhancements to changing rooms, stadium security, media tribune for over 150 journalists, and VAR systems are all improvements that have been made in the stadium over the years since it was built in 1983.

3. Mandela National Stadium (Namboole) – Kampala, Uganda

The Mandela National Stadium, as you might already know, is named after the former South African president and anti-apartheid legend, Nelson Mandela. It is located in Kampala, Uganda and has 45,000 seats. The stadium was built with a grant of $36 million from the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

Some renovations were made in preparation for this competition, including new floodlights, improved seating, revamped dressing rooms, disability-access facilities, and a CAF plus FIFA compliant pitch renovation.

2. Kasarani Stadium (Moi International Sports Centre) – Nairobi, Kenya

In terms of capacity, the Kasarani Stadium in Kenya would be the second biggest stadium to host the CHAN 2024 with a 55,000-seat capacity. The stadium was built for the major purpose of hosting the All-African Games in 1987, and is evident by the presence of a running track, a competition-size swimming pool, an indoor arena, and more.

The Kasarani Stadium is not only selected to host the CHAN 2024, but will also be host to the 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON). 

Also, upgrades and finishing touches were implemented to enhance the stadium for a more enjoyable experience, including the installation of CAF-standard VAR systems, upgraded 3,000-lux floodlights, a new pitch turf, full seating renovation, improved changing rooms, media, and VIP areas.

1. Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

This stadium, which was opened in 2007, is a multipurpose stadium located in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. It is the country's main national stadium. Major football matches are hosted in this stadium, such as home matches for the Tanzania national football team.

The 60,000-capacity stadium is the largest stadium that will be hosting the tournament and is also recognised as one of the top 20 largest stadiums in Africa. It was built for a total cost of $56 million by the Beijing Construction Group.

Ultimately, the stadium is fully compliant with CAF standards, has excellent pitch conditions, and is no stranger to hosting CAF Confederation Cup finals.

Other Supporting Venues

• Bukhungu Stadium – Kakamega, Kenya (training and reserve matches)
  
• Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium – Kampala, Uganda (newly renovated, 30,000+ capacity)
• CCM Kirumba Stadium – Mwanza, Tanzania (additional fixtures and team training base)