Security Tight, Traffic Snarls Expected as CHAN 2024 Kicks Off in Nairobi
With the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) underway, Kenyan authorities have given security preparations at key Nairobi venues a clean bill of health while warning motorists of significant traffic disruptions, especially on Saturday, August 3rd.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja led a high-level National Security Council delegation on a comprehensive inspection tour of Nyayo National Stadium and the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The team, joined by Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, meticulously assessed critical operational areas including changing rooms, entry and exit points, and stadium perimeters.
Security Assurances Given
Following the inspection, officials expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness across security, protocol, and logistics for hosting the continental football event. PS Omollo emphasized the collaborative nature of the security plan.
“This collaborative framework involving the National Police Service, emergency teams, specialized units, and event organizers is designed to ensure the safety of players, fans, officials, and all stakeholders throughout the tournament,” Dr. Omollo assured the public.
Major Traffic Disruptions on August 3rd
Nairobi County Traffic Commandant Joseph Chirchir announced major road closures scheduled for Saturday, August 3rd, when Kenya hosts one of the tournament’s opening matches at Nyayo Stadium. Motorists are advised to brace for significant impacts:
- Road Closures:
- Aerodrome Road (from Madaraka Roundabout to Nyayo Stadium)
- Lang’ata Road (from Madaraka Roundabout to Lusaka Roundabout)
- Mombasa Road (from Lusaka Roundabout to Bunyala Road)
- Alternative Routes:
- Mombasa Road to CBD: Use Likoni-Enterprise Road near General Motors or the Southern Bypass at Ole Sereni.
- Lang’ata Road Users: Consider Raila Odinga Road or Muhoroni Road via Mbagathi Roundabout.
- To Thika, Ruiru, or Juja: Use Limuru Road and Kiambu Road.
- Matatus to Kasarani: Directed to use Ruaraka Baba Dogo Road and Ngomongo Road.
Tournament Underway
The historic CHAN 2024 tournament, co-hosted for the first time by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, officially kicked off on Friday, August 2nd. Several participating teams have already arrived in Kenya for their group-stage matches. The tournament is set to run until August 30th.
Authorities urge fans attending matches to plan their journeys well in advance, utilize the advised alternative routes, and allow extra travel time due to the expected congestion. The emphasis remains on ensuring both a secure and smoothly run event for all.
