The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has declared that attendance for the upcoming Zambia versus Kenya match on Sunday, August 17, will be capped at 27,000 fans.
This announcement came in a statement issued on Monday, August 11, where CAF explained that the decision was prompted by multiple security failures experienced at Kasarani Stadium during the Kenya versus Morocco match held on Sunday, August 10.
Alongside the reduced capacity, a strict ticketing protocol will be enforced, allowing entry solely to spectators holding electronic tickets, while physical (thermal) tickets will no longer be accepted.
Moreover, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) together with government authorities will roll out a public media campaign aimed at reinforcing safety guidelines and clarifying entry rules.
“CAF expects full and immediate compliance with these directives. Failure to implement them may result in more serious sanctions, which may include the consideration of alternative venues for future matches of the Host Team.
“We trust these measures will be applied swiftly to protect competition’s integrity, ensure fan safety, and uphold confidence in Kenya’s commitment to the Tournament,” CAF said.
In detailing the security breaches, CAF highlighted several critical issues including the overwhelming of stadium gates by ticketless fans and holders of physical tickets that had been distributed by government entities, breaches of the perimeter fence, and loss of control at exit points.
The confederation also drew attention to the failure of crowd management at Ngomongo roundabout, which led to uncontrolled access through multiple gates. Reports indicated the use of tear gas and flash grenades, alongside claims of live ammunition being discharged close to spectators and event staff.
Violent episodes were also noted, with stone-throwing targeting security personnel and unsafe movement of vehicles within spectator areas during the match.
CAF further criticized the inadequate police response despite repeated appeals for intervention, while also observing that no medical incident reports were submitted concerning the reported injuries.
Insufficient communication tools and the absence of CCTV surveillance at key entry points were additional shortcomings identified by the confederation.
“Following repeated and serious security lapses during Kenya’s home matches at Kasarani Stadium, CAF has taken the decision to impose immediate measures for upcoming fixtures in Kasarani involving the Host Nation.
“Despite multiple warnings and previous sanctions, the necessary measures to control ticketless spectators, ensure effective crowd management, and fully comply with CAF security requirements have not been implemented,” CAF added.