Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has called on Kenyans to turn out in large numbers and support the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Mvurya has emphasised the importance of national pride and unity in showcasing Kenya’s passion for football.

Taking to his official X account on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, after a high-level engagement with the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Mvurya expressed deep appreciation for the committee’s commitment, energy, and collaborative spirit in preparing for the continental football event.

“I conveyed my appreciation to the Local Organising Committee for their synergy, dedication, and energy as they work tirelessly to deliver a world-class event,” he stated.

He further noted that the LOC, in partnership with various government departments and stakeholders, has worked around the clock to ensure that the championship meets international standards and provides a memorable experience for fans and participants alike.

Embracing the tournament

CS Mvurya urged Kenyans from all walks of life to embrace the tournament with enthusiasm, describing it as an opportunity for the country to shine on the African stage.

“Kenyans, let’s turn out in large numbers and proudly showcase our passion and enthusiasm for football and make this a tournament to remember!” the statement read.

The CS was accompanied by Principal Secretaries Elijah Mwangi (Sports) and Fikirini Jacobs (Youth Affairs & Creative Economy), Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed, LOC Chair Nicholas Musonye, officials from the Office of the Government Spokesperson, and other senior government officials.

The African Nations Championship (CHAN), unlike AFCON, is exclusively reserved for players who compete in their country’s domestic leagues. Kenya is among the host nations preparing to stage the prestigious tournament.

Kenya’s squad

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has made three last-minute changes to his final 25-man squad ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which kicks off on August 2, 2025. The tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marks Kenya’s debut in the continental competition reserved for local-based players.

Shabana FC midfielder Brian Michira, Tusker FC’s Chrispin Erambo, and Sofapaka forward Edward Omondi have been drafted in to replace the outgoing trio of Mohammed Bajaber, Swaleh Pamba, and Brian Musa. Bajaber’s absence is reportedly linked to a move to Tanzanian giants Simba SC, ruling him out of the domestic-only tournament.

The reshuffle comes just days before Kenya’s opening clash against DR Congo on August 3 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The Harambee Stars are placed in a challenging Group A that also features Angola, Morocco, and Zambia, dubbed the “Group of Death” by fans and pundits alike.