Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed urged fans to arrive at the stadium five hours before CHAN 2025 matches, citing strict security protocols and capacity limits imposed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The directive, announced during a press briefing, aims to prevent chaos following multiple security breaches during Kenya’s opening match against DR Congo on August 3.
The early stadium arrival call, reported by TUKO.co.ke, has sparked mixed reactions, with searches for “CHAN 2025 stadium rules” and “Hussein Mohammed early arrival” trending as fans prepare for Harambee Stars’ upcoming semi-final against Zambia.
The FKF’s directive follows a KSh 2.5 million fine from CAF for incidents at Kasarani Stadium, including a stampede at Gate 11, a motorbike spinning through crowds, and a fire behind Block 18.
Mohammed emphasized that arriving five hours early by 10 a.m. for the 3 p.m. Zambia match ensures smooth entry and compliance with CAF’s safety regulations, which cap attendance at 75% capacity (45,000 at Kasarani).
To accommodate overflow, FKF has established fan zones in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Eldoret. These measures aim to enhance safety after CAF criticized Kenya’s security lapses, including an assault on a CAF staff member by Falcon Private Security.
Harambee Stars’ 1-0 victory over Morocco on August 10, driven by Benson Omala’s goal, has heightened excitement, with fans eager to support the team’s semi-final push.
However, Mohammed’s early stadium arrival mandate has drawn criticism
comparing it to excessive ticketing restrictions, calling it “unrealistic” for working fans.
Others questioned logistical planning, suggesting closer transport hubs to ease access. FKF has partnered with Magical Kenya, injecting KSh 15 million to support Harambee Stars, including fan zone setups. Coach Benni McCarthy praised the initiative, noting it fosters a safe environment for fans.
The security concerns stem from Kenya’s role as a CHAN 2025 co-host with Uganda and Tanzania, a precursor to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. CAF’s strict oversight, led by President Patrice Motsepe, who attended the DR Congo match alongside President William Ruto shows the need for compliance.
Mohammed’s call aligns with bans on vuvuzelas and drums to reduce disruptions, per Interior PS Raymond Omollo’s statement. Local businesses near Kasarani, like Mama Jay’s eatery, report reduced foot traffic due to early closures for security, highlighting economic impacts. People online now looking for “CHAN 2025 fan zones” and “Harambee Stars semi-final rules” reflect fans’ efforts to navigate the new protocols.
" You should be at the stadium 5 hours before the match"- FKF President Hussein Mohammed now says! pic.twitter.com/9mpWe7iRt7
— The Kenyan Vigilante (@KenyanSays) August 12, 2025
Critics argue the five-hour rule may deter attendance, especially for families, with public transport challenges. FKF has promised shuttle services from Nairobi’s CBD, but details remain sparse. Mohammed’s leadership, praised for securing sponsorships, faces scrutiny over fan accessibility, with Okiya Omtatah calling for better coordination.
The measures aim to prevent repeats of the August 3 stampede, which injured fans, and ensure Kenya’s hosting reputation remains intact. As the CHAN 2025 semi-final approaches, FKF’s early stadium arrival directive remains a focal point.
Fans are urged to plan ahead, with fan zones offering an alternative for those unable to enter Kasarani. Mohammed’s emphasis on safety aims to balance enthusiasm with order, ensuring a memorable tournament experience.
The early stadium arrival mandate shows FKF’s commitment to CAF compliance, but fan frustration persists. With Zambia’s match looming, Mohammed’s call for five-hour early arrivals seeks to prevent security lapses.
Fan zones provide relief, but accessibility concerns linger.FKF’s early stadium arrival rule, backed by Mohammed, aims to safeguard CHAN 2025’s success.
The KSh 2.5 million CAF fine serves as a wake-up call, pushing for stricter crowd management. As Harambee Stars chase glory, fans must adapt to these stringent measures.
To conclude, FKF President Hussein Mohammed’s early stadium arrival directive for CHAN 2025, urging fans to arrive five hours before matches, responds to CAF’s security demands after costly breaches.
While fan zones ease capacity limits, the rule challenges accessibility. As searches for “CHAN 2025 early stadium arrival tips” rise, the measure tests Kenya’s hosting capabilities, balancing safety with fan engagement.
