Kenya is 98 per cent ready to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), following a final inspection of key venues across the country. 

CAF officials, led by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) chair Nicholas Musonye, concluded a three-day assessment mission on Saturday, inspecting stadiums and training facilities. 

Musonye confirmed that Kenya had passed the test and rubbished earlier doubts over the country’s preparedness. 

“I want to assure Kenyans that we are ready. CAF has given us a clean bill of health,” Musonye declared, speaking at the freshly upgraded Nyayo Stadium.  

Similarly, Musonye was categorical that the venues meet international standards, adding that both Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium, alongside key training grounds like Police Sacco, Ulinzi Sports Complex and Utalii Grounds are fully operational.  

“This time last year, many were sceptical, not just CAF, but Kenyans too. Today, those doubts have been silenced,” he said.  

“The facilities we have built can pass any global test. No one! No one… in the true sense of the word, can come and say that we are not in a position to host this competition. We have been in many places in Africa. We don’t have this kind of facilities.” 

CAF’s final inspection comes months after several visits earlier in the year, for instance in January, February, March and May during which significant infrastructural work was still ongoing.  

The latest visit, however, marks a turning point. 

Musonye acknowledged that no stadium in the world is ever 100 per cent complete, but insisted Kenya is more than ready: “We’re at 98 per cent. The remaining two per cent are minor finishing touches that don’t affect the hosting of football matches.” 

He praised the Kenyan government for prioritising the investment in sports infrastructure and affirmed that Kenya is not only ready for Chan but is also on track to co-host Afcon 2027 alongside Tanzania and Uganda. 

The LOC chair concluded with a strong message to CAF, stakeholders and critics: “Football will be played here, and it will be played in a very good atmosphere.”