Cabinet Minister for Labour and Social Protection Alfred Mutua joined leaders across the region who hailed their respective teams for strong performance during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Despite the co-hosts crashing out of the tournament in the quarterfinals, leaders remained optimistic that how the teams took on major sporting powerhouses was a sign of better things to come.

In a statement on Saturday, August 23, 2025, CS Mutua observed that most of the East African nations were forced to chase the games in the dying minutes.

However, CS Mutua suggested that in future competitions, teams should aim to start their matches strongly and score early to prevent last-minute pressure.

Mutua praised the defensive shape of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, maintaining they stood solidly in front of their goalkeepers during the continental showpiece.

“Our East African boys fought bravely, and while the results didn’t go our way, there is so much to be proud of. Kenya, in particular, displayed outstanding defensive discipline holding shape, closing spaces, and frustrating opponents with resilience and grit. That strong backline is the foundation upon which great victories are built,” Mutua’s statement read in part.

“My observation is this: when our East African teams combine their rock-solid defending with the same speed, accuracy, and hunger to score that we often see in the final minutes, we will be unstoppable. The urgency and attacking drive must start from the first whistle, not only when we are chasing the game,” he advised.

No longer a pushover

Despite the disappointing twist in the semis, Mutua indicated that East African teams had sent a powerful messages to other footballing nations across the continent.

“Still, the progress is clear for all to see. Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania have stepped up and shown that East Africa is no longer a pushover,” he noted.

“We are steadily rising, and next time, we will be a force to reckon with,” Mutua stressed.

Crashing out

Uganda Cranes crashed out of the tournament on Saturday, August 23, 2025, after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to defending champions Senegal at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.

Uganda’s exit followed Friday’s setbacks for its co-hosting neighbours. In Nairobi, Kenya’s Harambee Stars lost 4-3 on penalties to Madagascar after a 1-1 draw.

At the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s Taifa Stars were edged 1-0 by Morocco.