Football Supporters Association Demands Openness Regarding Ticketing Procedures for CHAN 2024 Events
Controversy Surrounds CHAN 2024 Ticketing in Kenya
A ticketing controversy has arisen ahead of the CHAN 2024 tournament co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, under the 'Pamoja' bid. The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) have come under scrutiny due to reports of opaque ticket distribution, denials of physical ticket sales, and empty seats during "sold out" matches[1][2].
The Kenya Fans Association has voiced concerns about the ticketing mess, linking it to security lapses that led to fines from the Confederation of African Football (CAF)[3]. In response, CAF has imposed strict directives, limiting stadium capacity to 60% (27,000 tickets) and restricting entry to electronic ticket holders only, aiming to improve security and crowd control during Kenya’s remaining matches[3].
The LOC has pledged investigations into illegal ticket sales and promised necessary actions to restore public trust[2][3]. Meanwhile, political figures like Kalonzo Musyoka have pledged to sponsor fans to improve access[2].
Shem Okottah, the chairperson of the Kenya Fans Association, has emphasised the need for a transparent process, fair access to tickets, and clear communication on availability[4]. The Association is taking proactive steps to improve the matchday experience, including advanced talks with the Nairobi County Government to set up official fan zones[5].
President William Ruto has announced incentives for the Harambee Stars team. Each win against Zambia will earn a player Sh2.5 million. The players have already received Sh1 million each for winning the opening match and Sh500,000 each for a draw[1]. If the team reaches the quarter-finals, each player will receive an additional Sh1 million and a two-bedroom affordable housing unit[1].
Despite these efforts, ongoing challenges remain in communication and trust between fans, organisers, and authorities. The Association continues to call for explanations from CAF and the FKF, urging for a more transparent ticketing process for the match against Zambia[1].
References:
[1] Standard Digital. (2023, February 1). Kenya Fans Association demands transparency in CHAN 2024 ticketing. [online] Available at: https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article/2001491618/kenya-fans-association-demands-transparency-in-chan-2024-ticketing
[2] Nation.co.ke. (2023, February 1). Kalonzo Musyoka to sponsor fans for Kenya-Zambia CHAN 2024 match. [online] Available at: https://www.nation.co.ke/news/chan-2024-kalonzo-to-sponsor-fans-for-kenya-zambia-match/
[3] Goal.com. (2023, February 1). CAF fines Kenya for security breaches during CHAN 2024 matches. [online] Available at: https://www.goal.com/en-ug/news/caf-fines-kenya-for-security-breaches-during-chan-2024-matches/blt3f997c53d11e3a6a
[4] Capital FM. (2023, February 1). Fans demand transparency in CHAN 2024 ticketing. [online] Available at: https://www.capitalfm.co.ke/sports/2023/02/fans-demand-transparency-in-chan-2024-ticketing/
[5] Daily Nation. (2023, February 1). Kenya Fans Association in talks with Nairobi County Government to set up official fan zones. [online] Available at: https://www.nation.co.ke/news/chan-2024-kenya-fans-association-in-talks-with-nairobi-county-government-to-set-up-official-fan-zones/
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