CAF commends Tanzania for 2024 Chan final readiness

Dar es Salaam. With just 11 days remaining until kick-off, the excitement surrounding the 2025 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) is reaching fever pitch across East Africa.

In a major boost to host nation Tanzania, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially endorsed the country’s readiness to host the opening leg of the continent’s premier tournament for home-based players.

CAF Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba delivered the encouraging assessment during an official inspection tour in Dar es Salaam.

He visited several key facilities, including training grounds and the state-of-the-art Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, which has been confirmed as the venue for the tournament’s opening match between hosts Tanzania’s Taifa Stars and Burkina Faso. 

“Tanzania is clearly on the right path to hosting a top-tier tournament,” said Mosengo-Omba.

“The infrastructure is impressive, and the dedication of local authorities is evident in every detail.”

His comments followed a positive review of the supporting ecosystem—including transport logistics, accommodation facilities, and training pitches—all found to be in line with CAF’s rigorous standards.

In the tour were also Deputy Minister for Culture, Arts and Sports, Hamisi Mwinjuma alias Mwana FA  National Sports Council (NSC) Secretary General Neema Msitha .

Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) Secretary General Kidao Wilfred and others.  

This year’s tournament marks a historic milestone in African football: the first time three countries—Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya—will co-host a major CAF competition.

Running from August 2 to 30, the eighth edition of CHAN is not only a celebration of local football talent but a bold expression of unity, identity, and regional cooperation in East Africa.

Each host nation plays a distinct role in this unprecedented collaboration.

Tanzania will set the tone with the opening match in Dar es Salaam.

The action then shifts to Kampala, Uganda, which will host the third-place playoff, before concluding with the grand final in Nairobi, Kenya, where the new champions will be crowned.

“We are now just two weeks away from writing a new chapter in African football,” Mosengo-Omba stated.

“This tournament is more than a competition—it’s a powerful statement of African excellence, unity, and belief in local talent.

East Africa is ready to welcome the continent.” The final draw has already been conducted, with 19 national teams, including defending champions Senegal, placed into their respective groups.

The tournament promises high-intensity clashes, filled stadiums, and a showcase of the continent’s most promising home-grown players.