2024 TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) Set for East African Co-Hosting

The 2024 edition of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marking the first time the tournament is held across three East African nations. The competition is scheduled to take place from February 1 to February 28, 2025, promising a month of thrilling football action showcasing talent from across Africa.

The CHAN tournament, which is exclusively reserved for players featuring in their respective domestic leagues, will see these three host nations—Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—automatically qualify. However, in a unique move, the host nations will also participate in the qualifying rounds, providing additional excitement and opportunities for fans in the region to watch their teams in action during the lead-up to the tournament.

CECAFA Zone Gains Extra Qualification Spot

CAF has awarded an extra qualification spot to the CECAFA zone (Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations) as part of the preparations for the tournament. This will allow for more representation from the region in what promises to be a highly competitive event. The competition, which continues to grow in prominence, will bring together the best local talent from across Africa, providing a platform for players to shine and earn further recognition.

Qualifying Rounds and Dates

The qualifying process is set to kick off in October 2024. The first round of qualifiers will be held from October 25 to 27, 2024, with another set of matches following on November 1 to 3, 2024. Teams that progress from the initial stages will then compete in the second round, slated for December 20-22 and December 27-29, 2024. 

This rigorous qualification process ensures that the final lineup of teams participating in the CHAN 2024 edition will be truly deserving of their place in the tournament. Fans can expect high-intensity matches as teams vie for the coveted spots in one of Africa’s premier football events.

Venues and Stadiums

Details on the specific stadiums and training sites that will be used during the tournament are yet to be confirmed. However, the three host nations boast a number of world-class football facilities that are likely to be showcased, providing a fitting stage for the continent’s top homegrown talent. Further announcements regarding the venues are expected soon, with officials working hard to ensure that each country is fully prepared to host such a significant event.

East African Football on the Rise

The co-hosting of the CHAN 2024 edition by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania is a significant milestone for East African football. It signals the region’s growing influence and ambition in African football, offering an opportunity to develop local talent and showcase the passion for the sport in this part of the continent.

As the tournament draws nearer, excitement is building among fans and players alike. The stage is set for a memorable competition, and with the added interest of local teams playing from the qualifiers to the final, football lovers across the region have plenty to look forward to. 

The African Nations Championship promises to not only provide top-quality football but also unite nations and celebrate the beautiful game across Africa.