Nairobi, Kenya — Monday, July 28, 2025, 11:30 AM EAT — Fans attending the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 matches will not be allowed to carry vuvuzelas, whistles, drums, or other banned items into stadiums, according to a directive issued by the Local Safety and Security Department.
The ban, announced on Monday, is part of heightened security and safety protocols ahead of the regional football tournament, which kicks off on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The tournament will conclude on Saturday, August 30, at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in Nairobi, Kenya.
“We urge all fans to comply with stadium rules and maintain calm. Let us show up in large numbers to support the Harambee Stars and ensure a safe tournament,” read part of the statement from the Local Organizing Committee.
List of Prohibited Items for CHAN 2024 Stadiums
The safety department has released a detailed list of items that are not allowed into any of the tournament venues in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, which are co-hosting CHAN 2024 as part of preparations for the upcoming AFCON 2027.
🚫 Noise-Making Devices
- Vuvuzelas
- Drums
- Whistles
- Loudspeakers
- Megaphones
These items, while common in African football stadiums, are now restricted due to their potential to create chaos or disrupt emergency communications.
🚫 Animals and Pets
- All animals, including household pets, are banned—except for certified service dogs.
🚫 Food and Beverages
- Outside food and drinks (except for medical or infant needs)
- Takeaways from outside the stadium
- Powdery substances such as flour or baking powder
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🚫 Offensive Materials
- Banners with political, racial, religious, or offensive messages
- Flags targeting gender, nationality, or personal identity
According to the organizers, any message that promotes hate or division is strictly prohibited.
🚫 Tech Disruption Equipment
- Electronic devices that can jam signals, interfere with broadcast equipment, or IT infrastructure
🚫 Dangerous Items
- Weapons (real or replicas), firearms, ammunition
- Explosives, detonators, ignition devices
- Flammable materials, fireworks, flares, gas canisters
- Chemical substances, including pastes, powders, sprays
- Breakable items, such as glass bottles, cans, or ceramic mugs
- Large items like suitcases, cooler boxes, and folding chairs
- Helmets of any kind — motorcycle, sports, or construction
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CHAN 2024: The Road to AFCON 2027
This year’s CHAN tournament is a major milestone in East Africa’s football history. It is the first time Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda will co-host a major CAF event.
The tournament also acts as a dress rehearsal for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to be hosted in the region. According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the success of CHAN 2024 will directly impact AFCON 2027 preparations.
Catch up on AFCON 2027 plans and CAF updates via BBC Sport
Nyayo Stadium to Host Key Matches
Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi has already proven to be a crowd-puller. A recent match between Kenya and Gabon on March 23 saw the stadium filled to capacity. Organizers are urging fans to maintain the same spirit while respecting all security guidelines.
