By Kennedy Nalyanya
Kenya's national football team, the Harambee Stars, is facing a significant setback after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) levied a Ksh. 6.5 million fine against the country. The penalty comes after a series of serious security breaches during Sunday's match against Morocco at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
CAF's investigation found the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) guilty of multiple violations, including allowing ticketless fans to overrun police barricades and flood the stadium, causing the attendance to far exceed the venue's capacity. The report detailed how fans breached the stadium's perimeter fence and overwhelmed security at multiple gates.
The situation spiralled out of control, with security forces accused of using tear gas and flash grenades on the crowd. The report even cited the use of live ammunition being fired near spectators and staff, along with violent incidents like stone-throwing and unsafe vehicle movement in fan areas.
As a result of these breaches, CAF has taken a drastic step: it will restrict attendance for Kenya's final Group A fixture against Zambia this Sunday. Only 60% of Kasarani's capacity will be allowed, meaning a maximum of 27,000 fans can attend.
CAF also issued a stern warning that any further failure to meet security requirements could result in future Harambee Stars matches being relocated to different venues.
To avoid another security debacle, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) has announced new measures. Fans are now required to arrive at the stadium five hours before kick-off, and thermal tickets have been banned. Additionally, the LOC plans to set up designated fan zones for supporters who don't have tickets, offering them a safe alternative to watch the game.
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