Official announcement unveils strategies for preventing crowds and chaos at sports venues
Kenya and Angola Clash in CHAN 2024: Strict Security Measures in Place at Kasarani Stadium
The much-anticipated CHAN 2024 clash between Kenya and Angola is set to take place today at Nairobi's Kasarani Stadium. In light of previous security breaches during earlier matches, including the Kenya vs DR Congo game, stringent measures have been put in place to ensure a smooth and safe event.
The security and logistical protocols for the match include enforced sectional seating to prevent overcrowding in specific areas, the deployment of well-trained stewards and security officers around the stadium, and layered perimeter controls to manage entry and exit points efficiently. These measures aim to ensure fans can enter and exit the stadium smoothly and safely.
Following the security lapses in earlier matches, the government and Football Kenya Federation (FKF) have addressed issues such as delayed deployment of security personnel and stewards, which had contributed to crowd trouble. This error has been rectified by ensuring timely and adequate deployment of security staff.
There is a stern warning from authorities to fans to exercise discipline and comply with stadium rules. Any further crowd disturbances will not be tolerated, and offenders will be removed or face prosecution. A CAF-approved list of banned items has been circulated, and thorough searches will be conducted. Fans are urged to comply with security and steward instructions at all times.
Ticket checks will be conducted 1 kilometre from stadium gates to reduce pressure at final checkpoints. For Wednesday's double-header matches at Nyayo and Kasarani, all deployments are complete, according to FKF's Nicholas Musonye.
Fans will be seated in designated areas, and entry will be staggered to avoid dangerous surges. Nyayo Stadium gates will open to the public at 11 am for a 5 pm match, while Kasarani will open at 1 pm for a 7 pm match.
Dr. Raymond Omollo, the Interior Principal Secretary, emphasised that the government's goal is to deliver a safe, orderly, and exciting tournament. He reiterated that CHAN 2024 will ensure fans can enter and exit in waves, not surges.
Musonye confirmed that there are strict sectional seating protocols, well-trained stewards, and layered perimeter controls in place for the tournament. He admitted that previous delays in deploying stewards and frontline teams caused gate-opening setbacks.
Kenya's interagency approach is key to delivering a safe and world-class tournament, in line with CAF's strict safety, security, and fan conduct protocols. The CHAN 2024 clash between Kenya and Angola promises to be an exciting event, with the focus on ensuring the safety and comfort of all attendees.
Despite the intense focus on football during CHAN 2024, politics and sports have come together to ensure the event runs smoothly. The government and Football Kenya Federation have worked tirelessly to maintain order, implementing strict security measures at Kasarani Stadium, such as sectional seating, increased security personnel, and thorough bag checks. This cooperation aims to avoid any repeat of the chaos seen in previous matches, like the Kenya vs DR Congo game.
