FIFA President Gianni Infantino has landed in Nairobi ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) final, marking his first official visit to Kenya since taking over world football’s top seat in 2016.
Infantino, who has led FIFA since February 2016 and is also a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), was received at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Friday by Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Hussein Mohammed.
Describing the visit as “a historic moment for Kenya,” Mohammed said Infantino’s presence signals FIFA’s growing confidence in Kenya’s ability to host major international football events.
Infantino to Grace Kasarani Final
Infantino will be the chief guest at the CHAN 2024 final between Madagascar and two-time champions Morocco, set for 6:00 p.m. at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The final brings the curtain down on a month-long tournament that began on August 2, showcasing both footballing talent and Kenya’s organizational strength.
High-Level Football Activity in Nairobi
Infantino’s visit comes as Nairobi hosts a flurry of high-level football activities.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe, who jetted in yesterday, is chairing a CAF Executive Committee meeting involving all 54 African football federation heads at a city hotel.
Infantino is expected to attend the meeting, address the media alongside Motsepe, and later proceed to Kasarani for the grand finale.
Kenya’s Growing Football Profile
Kenya’s Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya assured heightened security and smooth logistics for the high-profile guests, emphasizing the country’s readiness to deliver.
Adding to the prestige, Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina will also be in attendance, cheering his national team as they aim to surpass their 2023 bronze medal finish.
For Kenya, Infantino’s presence is more than ceremonial—it is a vote of confidence as the country prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027) with Uganda and Tanzania.
