No vuvuzelas, megaphones or takeaway food: CHAN organisers announce strict rules ahead of tournament

As Kenya gears up to co-host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) from August 3 to 30, tournament organisers have announced a stringent list of banned items and conduct guidelines, with a clear warning to fans: leave behind anything that distracts, disrupts or offends.

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) has outlawed vuvuzelas, whistles, loudspeakers, megaphones and drums, instruments synonymous with African football's spirited culture. The organisers say the decision is aimed at ensuring order and safety during the tournaments.

Other items prohibited inside the venues include firearms, flares, fireworks, political or offensive banners, large backpacks, takeaway food, pets and any electronic devices that could interfere with stadium systems. Food brought from outside will also not be allowed unless it is for infants or medical reasons.

“If it explodes, offends, blocks, blasts or distracts, it stays outside,” reads part of a guidance statement issued by CHAN organisers.

In what appears to be a broader push to depoliticise the tournament, authorities have warned against using the championship as a platform for political messaging. Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed urged fans to refrain from chanting slogans unrelated to football during the matches.

"Let’s come and support our teams and make this tournament a celebration of African football, not a platform for politics," Hussein said during an interview with Citizen TV.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen echoed the sentiment earlier this month during an inspection of Kasarani Stadium.

“This is not the time to air our dirty linen. The whole continent will be watching Kenya. Let’s put our best foot forward,” he said.

The LOC also revealed that a comprehensive four-tier security system will be enforced at all stadium entrances, with fans required to undergo multiple layers of screening. Only digital tickets purchased through the official CHAN portal will be accepted. Fans must present SMS or email confirmations to gain access, adding that printed tickets will not be valid.

Despite the restrictions, organisers have promised a smooth and fan-friendly experience. Attendees have been encouraged to bring national or team jerseys, mobile phones and non-offensive flags or banners to show their support.

"Bring your energy, your friends and your singing voice," read the organisers' welcome note.

Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium will host Group A and Group C matches, respectively, with the opening match between hosts Harambee Stars and the Democratic Republic of Congo at Kasarani already sold out.

Morocco became the first team to arrive in Nairobi on Monday, touching down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport aboard a chartered flight. The two-time CHAN champions will open their campaign against Angola this Sunday at Nyayo Stadium.

The 2024 edition of CHAN will also be staged across Uganda and Tanzania, with Nairobi expected to play a central role in the month-long continental football festival.