CHAN 2024: List of prohibited items in stadiums
By Faith Lagat, August 3, 2025As Kenya hosts the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 starting August 3, the Ministry of Interior and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) have outlined a series of stringent security measures and a detailed list of prohibited items.
The matches will take place at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo National Stadium. The month-long tournament, co-hosted with Uganda and Tanzania, also serves as a critical preparatory stage for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the three countries will jointly host.
The move is designed to ensure public safety, manage crowds, and guarantee smooth operations throughout the high-profile event.
Prohibited items
“For a safe and enjoyable CHAN2024 experience for everyone attending the continental football matches at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo National Stadium, the following is strictly prohibited,” read part of the notice by the Ministry of Interior dated August 3, 2025.
Fans attending CHAN 2024 fixtures should take note of the comprehensive list of items banned at all match venues. Noise-making instruments—including vuvuzelas, whistles, megaphones, drums, and loudspeakers—have been restricted to allow clear emergency communication and reduce disturbances.
The ban extends to dangerous items such as firearms (including replicas), knives, fireworks, flares, explosives, gas canisters, and any flammable materials. Offensive content—whether on banners, flags, or clothing—bearing political, racial, religious, or discriminatory messaging is also not allowed.
Fans are further advised not to bring in outside food, beverages, or drinks in disposable bottles, cups, cans, or sealed containers. Exceptions will only be granted for baby food or items required for medical purposes, provided there is valid justification. Other banned materials include spray paint, aerosol containers, flour, baking powder, and all forms of animals or pets.
Officials say the move is aimed at minimising disruptions and enhancing crowd control. The restriction on outside food addresses potential hygiene concerns, while banning noisemakers such as vuvuzelas and megaphones is expected to maintain a conducive environment for both players and spectators.
Security and emergency protocols
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo have confirmed the deployment of multiple specialised security teams to manage fan safety. These include tourist police, counter-terror units, and anti-riot forces.
The event will be monitored through an upgraded network of CCTV systems, and entry to the stadiums will be fully digital through e-ticketing—measures intended to eliminate fraud and reduce the risk of stampedes. In addition, emergency preparedness has been prioritised through the strategic placement of medical tents, ambulances, and trained response personnel. The effort is supported by the National Counterterrorism Centre (NCTC) and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT).
To facilitate cross-border fan travel, regional immigration desks have been established at major airports and land border crossings, accompanied by a special regional travel pass.
Mixed reactions to bans
The ban on iconic fan instruments such as vuvuzelas and drums has sparked debate across the region. East African supporters are known for their vibrant cheering styles, and some feel the restrictions dampen the unique football atmosphere.
Despite the concerns, officials have urged fans to comply, arrive early, and support the national team in a safe and orderly manner as CHAN 2024 gets underway.