Passaris: CHAN is a boost to youth employment and national unity
By Joel Masibo, August 5, 2025Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has lauded the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament as a timely and strategic investment by the government, saying it is already bearing fruit by addressing the country’s youth unemployment crisis while fostering national unity.
Speaking on the sidelines of a CHAN post-match event in Nairobi, Passaris argued that the government has invested a lot of resources in hosting the continental showpiece alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
Employment opportunity
“The government has invested a lot of money in hosting CHAN; that’s a great initiative. This tournament will create job opportunities for our youth, the hospitality industry will boom, and our youth will get jobs in hotels,” Passaris said on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
With Kenya battling high rates of youth unemployment, Passaris emphasised that such international events market the country’s potential on the global stage and also provide immediate economic opportunities. According to the legislator, sectors like tourism, food and beverage, transport, and event management are some of the direct beneficiaries of the CHAN tournament.
Hospitality businesses in Nairobi and surrounding towns are expected to record higher foot traffic as the tournament progresses. Reportedly, hotels are hiring temporary workers to meet the surge in demand.
Beyond the economic impact, Passaris also highlighted the social value of the championship, particularly in enhancing national cohesion and patriotism.
“This championship has also contributed to national cohesion. When Austine Odhiambo scored the goal, no one said he came from Nyanza. Our footballers are also exposing their talent to the outside world,” she added.
Odhiambo’s performance in the national team, according to Passaris, is symbolic of a united Kenya where talent is celebrated regardless of ethnic background. She further noted that the exposure players are receiving during CHAN could open doors for international transfers, helping young athletes secure a livelihood through football.
Passaris urged young people to seize the opportunities presented by such major events in associated industries and around them. The CHAN 2024 tournament continues to attract thousands of fans and scouts from across the continent.
Through the latest statement by the Ministry of Interior, Kenya is determined to deliver a successful African Nations Championship that ends with the final slated for Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani in Nairobi.