The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a fine of KSh 2.5 million on the Kenya Football Federation (KFF) following serious security violations during the CHAN 2024 fixture between Kenya and DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium.
The disciplinary action comes in the wake of several alarming incidents documented in CAF’s official report, which raised grave concerns over the organisation and safety protocols at the venue. According to CAF, the match was marred by repeated breaches that endangered spectators, officials, and staff.
One of the most critical episodes involved intrusions into restricted security areas, with an unauthorized stampede at Gate 11 causing chaos and threatening the safety of those attempting to enter the stadium.
Additionally, the report flagged a disturbing incident in which a motorcycle was seen moving erratically through a crowd of spectators, posing a considerable risk to public safety.
Further compounding the situation, fans were reported to have ignited fires behind the stands, escalating the danger inside the stadium and highlighting a serious failure in crowd management and security oversight. CAF deemed these incidents to be a direct violation of its safety and operational regulations.
CAF’s findings also pointed to multiple administrative and protocol failures. Among the more concerning revelations was the refusal by State Security personnel to grant access to CAF officials and protocol officers in the VVIP area, a move that contravened standard event operations and disrupted CAF’s ability to manage the match in accordance with its guidelines.
Moreover, the report detailed two separate assaults that further influenced CAF’s disciplinary response. A CAF sales staff member and a representative of one of the tournament sponsors were allegedly attacked by a private security guard.
These incidents, described as both unacceptable and alarming, contributed significantly to the severity of the financial penalty imposed.
The KSh 2.5 million fine is a reflection of what CAF views as a collective failure by local organisers to ensure the minimum required standards of safety and professionalism during a major continental tournament.
The governing body has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on lapses that compromise the integrity of its competitions and put lives at risk.
While the Kenya Football Federation has yet to issue an official response, the sanction places further scrutiny on the country’s football authorities and their ability to manage high-profile international fixtures.
The events at Kasarani have raised broader questions about security preparedness, coordination with state agencies, and adherence to CAF’s operational protocols.
With CHAN 2024 still ongoing, CAF has made it clear that similar breaches in future fixtures will attract even harsher disciplinary measures.
The organisation is expected to work closely with host federations to reinforce compliance, enhance safety procedures, and ensure the tournament proceeds without further disruption.
