Kenyan fans have received a boost after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) approved an 80 per cent stadium capacity for the African Nations Championship game between Harambee Stars and Madagascar.
This effectively means at least 38,400 fans will be expected to attend the match at the Moi International Sports Complex, Kasarani, a considerable increase from the 27,000 supporters present at Kenya's last group game against Zambia.
The decision came after the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), with the support of Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, appealed to the continental body to revise the 60 per cent sanction previously imposed.
The sanction followed unsavoury scenes during the Kenya vs Morocco clash on Sunday, August 10, when some fans forced their way through the first gates at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
Harambee Stars' subsequent game against Zambia was, however, largely peaceful, with fans adhering to the 27,000 cap and instead using government-assigned fan zones within the city.
Ahead of the Madagascar game, fan zones in Nairobi have been increased to 13, with community leaders set to ensure order during the match.
On the issue of tickets, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya confirmed that the official ticketing portal was reopened to accommodate purchase of extra tickets following the 20 per cent hike.
Mvurya also urged fans to adhere to CAF protocols for Madagascar game, with non-ticket holders encouraged to watch the game from home or the designated fan-zones for a near-stadium experience.
The additional fan zones will be located at Ruiru, Dagoretti’s Camp Toyoyo, and at Babadogo.
"I urge all Kenyans to strictly adhere to CAF protocols and regulations. If you already have a ticket, proceed directly to Kasarani Stadium. If not, make use of the designated fan zones, which are fully prepared to host the overwhelming number of supporters," Mvurya said.
"Let us maintain this positive momentum so that we do not jeopardize our attendance numbers, especially as we set our sights on the finals."
With the CHAN 2024 group stage completed, the game against Madagascar on Friday could potentially be Kenya's last at the Moi International Sports Centre, unless Harambee Stars reach the final, which will also be held at the same venue.
