What Is CHAN and Why Does It Matter?
The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) is finally set to take place this August across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The tournament, which features 19 teams, will run from August 2 to August 30 and serves as a significant buildup to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the same three East African nations will co-host. Unlike AFCON, CHAN exclusively features players who compete in their national domestic leagues, making it a vital stage for showcasing untapped homegrown talent.
The tournament has had a bumpy road to kick off. Initially scheduled for September 2024, it was moved to early 2025 before being shifted again to its current August date. These shifts stemmed from timing issues and conflicts with domestic league calendars. The instability has already caused Libya and Tunisia to withdraw, citing problems in releasing players from local clubs during their competitive seasons.
How Is CHAN Different from AFCON?
While both tournaments happen biennially and are overseen by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), their formats differ significantly. AFCON allows national teams to feature both locally-based and internationally-based players, giving it a broader and more competitive pool. In contrast, CHAN focuses solely on players who play in their home countries. This offers lesser-known players a golden opportunity to represent their nations on a continental stage and gain valuable international exposure.
Who Has Won CHAN in the Past?
CHAN was launched by CAF in 2009 as a celebration of local football talent. Since its inception, the tournament has grown in stature and reach. DR Congo claimed the inaugural title by defeating Ghana 2–0 in Ivory Coast. Tunisia, Libya, and Morocco have also secured victories, with Morocco lifting the trophy back-to-back in 2018 and 2020.
The upcoming 2024 edition will see participation from across CAF’s six regional zones: WAFU A and B (West Africa), UNAF (North Africa), UNIFFAC (Central Africa), CECAFA (East Africa), and COSAFA (Southern Africa). CECAFA, the host region, will be represented by four teams, while the other zones will each send three.
Why Is This CHAN Special for Kenya?
This is the first time the Harambee Stars are participating in the tournament, and they’ll be playing on home soil. For Kenya, this presents a chance not just to host but to contend for their first major football title. With massive fan support expected, the team will be hoping to make history and inspire a new generation of footballers.
By Yockshard Enyendi