CHAN 2024: East Africa Unites as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania Co-Host Historic Tournament.

The TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 is more than just another continental football competition. It represents a historic moment for East African football as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania join forces to host the 8th edition of this prestigious tournament.

For the first time in the history of CHAN, three countries will share hosting duties, offering fans across the region a chance to witness some of Africa’s brightest homegrown talents on their soil.

As the tournament kicks off, football lovers are not only eager to see new champions crowned but also to reflect on the rich history of CHAN — a competition that has evolved into one of the most exciting showcases of local African football.

CHAN 2024: The East African Dream

In a landmark decision, CAF awarded the hosting rights of CHAN 2024 to three East African nations — Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. This decision was celebrated as a major milestone for the region, which has often been overshadowed by North and West African football powerhouses.

Why Co-Hosting?

The move to have three co-hosts was partly logistical and partly symbolic. By spreading matches across multiple countries, CAF aims to:

Boost regional football infrastructure: Each country upgraded stadiums, training facilities, and transport networks to meet CAF standards.

Promote unity and collaboration: The tournament serves as a bridge between neighboring nations, encouraging cross-border football development.

Engage more fans: With games played in multiple cities, more supporters can experience the tournament live, fueling football culture in East Africa.

Host Cities and Venues

Each host nation will stage key group matches and knockout fixtures, showcasing their passion for the sport.

Kenya

Nyayo National Stadium (Nairobi): A historic 30,000-seat venue recently renovated with modern facilities.

Kasarani Stadium (Nairobi): The largest stadium in Kenya, often called the “Home of Kenyan Football.”

Uganda

Mandela National Stadium (Kampala): The centerpiece of Ugandan football, capable of hosting over 50,000 fans.

Tanzania

Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium (Dar es Salaam): A 60,000-capacity stadium, among East Africa’s finest.

Amaan Stadium (Zanzibar): Hosting select matches, showcasing Zanzibar’s rich football heritage.

This tournament is more than just football; it is a chance for East Africa to prove its capability to host major continental events. For decades, the region has struggled to break into Africa’s football elite, with few appearances at AFCON and limited success in continental club competitions.

The inaugural CHAN took place in 2009 in Ivory Coast. Since then, the competition has grown in stature and competitiveness, regularly producing memorable moments and revealing future African stars.

2009 – Ivory Coast

Winner: DR Congo (Defeated Ghana 2–0 in the final)

Significance: The first-ever CHAN, DR Congo made history as inaugural champions.

2011 – Sudan

Winner: Tunisia (Defeated Angola 3–0)

Significance: Tunisia became the first North African country to win CHAN.

2014 – South Africa

Winner: Libya (Defeated Ghana 4–3 on penalties)

Significance: Libya’s first major continental title, achieved amid political turmoil.

2016 – Rwanda

Winner: DR Congo (Defeated Mali 3–0)

Significance: DR Congo became the first team to win CHAN twice

2018 – Morocco

Winner: Morocco (Defeated Nigeria 4–0)

Significance: Morocco dominated on home soil, showcasing attacking flair.

2020 – Cameroon (played in 2021 due to COVID-19)

Winner: Morocco (Defeated Mali 2–0)

Significance: Morocco defended their title, becoming the second team after DR Congo to win twice.

2022 – Algeria (held in January 2023)

Winner: Senegal (Defeated Algeria 5–4 on penalties)

Significance: Senegal clinched their maiden CHAN title, cementing their rise in African football.

The reigning champions heading into CHAN 2024 are Senegal, who triumphed in the 2022 edition hosted by Algeria. Their dramatic penalty shootout victory against the hosts capped off a remarkable period for Senegalese football, as they also won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2021 and qualified for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Senegal’s CHAN success underscored the depth of talent within their domestic league and inspired other nations to invest in homegrown development.

While East Africa enjoys home advantage, traditional powerhouses are expected to pose formidable challenges.

As the opening whistle approaches, CHAN 2024 promises to be a turning point for East African football. Whether it’s the roar at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, the chants at Mandela Stadium in Kampala, or the vibrant atmosphere at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, the spirit of African football will be alive and thriving.

The question remains: Will Senegal defend their crown, or will a new champion emerge from East Africa’s historic hosting?

One thing is certain the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship 2024 is set to deliver drama, passion, and unforgettable moments, cementing its place as one of Africa’s most important football tournaments.

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