The CHAN 2024 finals closing ceremony is set to begin at 2pm on Saturday, August 29 at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani. Among the dignitaries in attendance will be Madagascar's president, Andry Rajoelina, as revealed by Sports Minister Salim Mvurya.
Mvurya disclosed that the performances and celebrations, headlined by Tanzania's Zuchu, Uganda's Eddy Kenzo, and Kenya's Savara, would kick off at 2pm and continue until 5pm, ahead of the final which will kick off at 6pm.
In a statement released on Friday, Mvurya also announced that several dignitaries would be hosted by the country for the Morocco vs Madagascar match, including senior government officials from Uganda and Tanzania - the other co-hosts of the continental tournament.
“The government has made elaborate plans to welcome top officials in the global and African football scene as well as top government officials from the three East African countries,” Mvurya said.
The ministry revealed that the Malagasy president and FIFA top brass, including president Gianni Infantino, as well as senior CAF officials, would be attending the finals.
“Among the dignitaries expected to grace the finals include the President of Madagascar, FIFA top brass, CAF senior officials, as well as senior officials from Uganda and Tanzania,” a statement by the ministry read.
Mvurya also disclosed that performances and celebrations ahead of the final would kick off at 2 pm until 5 pm. He urged fans to arrive early to allow for seamless processing at the entry points.
He added that fan zones have also been set up at various locations across the city for fans without tickets who would like to watch the match.
“As part of enhancing fan experience, the government has set up fan zones at Lucky Summer near Kasarani, Archives area in CBD, DC Grounds in Kibera, Githurai and Jacaranda Grounds,” the statement added.
Mvurya urged fans to arrive early to allow for seamless processing at the entry points.
Infantino at CHAN Final
Infantino's attendance at the final match adds an extra layer of importance to the 30-day tournament, which has brought entertainment and a sense of unity to its three co-hosts: Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Infantino has led the global football body for almost a decade. This trip would mark his first visit to the country since he became the president of FIFA.
In 2023, Infantino made a surprise appearance at the opening game of the African Football League in Tanzania, a match that drew more than 60,000 spectators.
Although he has not visited the country, Infantino met with FKF President Mohammed during the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco.
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