The governments of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania have announced the potential introduction of a special visa to facilitate travel for players, officials, and fans across their borders during the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025 tournament.
According to a statement released on Friday, May 9, Juney Karisa, the Head of Public Communications at the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, said that the three countries proposed discussions to explore how the "PAMOJA Visa" could enhance cross-border travel during the event.
Karisa highlighted that the proposed visa would allow for seamless movement between the three nations, simplifying logistics and enhancing the fan experience.
"The three nations also discussed cross-border facilitation measures to ensure the smooth movement of players, officials, and fans. Among the proposals is the introduction of a 'PAMOJA Visa' or a special multiple-entry pass to guarantee regional mobility and coordinate a unified security framework," the statement read.
The trio is also in the process of selecting the final venues for CHAN 2025, which is scheduled for August 2025. Karisa said that the Sports Ministers from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are expected to finalise the planning by next Tuesday.
According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), these decisions are crucial to ensuring that everything is in place for the tournament.
"The three countries' Sports Ministers are expected to conclude logistical discussions by Tuesday next week as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) intensifies preparations to ensure the East African trio is ready to host the prestigious tournament," Karisa said.
During an online meeting, CAF Secretary General Veron Mosengo-Omba and Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya, discussed Kenya's preparations, adding that they have already paid for the hosting rights for CHAN.
"We have already paid the hosting rights for CHAN. Our earmarked venues meet the required standards and are ready to support the extensive logistical operations needed for such a world-class event," said CS Mvurya.
He further noted that Kenya is collaborating with various government departments to ensure smooth operations.
Uganda’s Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang, and Tanzania’s Deputy Minister for Culture, Arts, and Sports, Hamisi Mwinjuma, also confirmed that their countries are fully prepared and committed to hosting the event successfully.
"The confirmation of venues and logistics will enable our advance teams to commence on-the-ground preparations for the August championship. CAF is fully committed to supporting Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in turning this historic joint bid into a resounding success," Ogwang said.
The CHAN 2025 tournament is viewed as an opportunity for the three nations to showcase unity and cooperation in East Africa while hosting a world-class football event.
