Mwendwa: Well be ready in time for CHAN 2018

Kenya is still on course to host the 2018 African Nations Championships (CHAN), Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President, Nick Mwendwa, has affirmed.

Last week, the FKF boss attended a briefing held in Cairo to give presentations on the milestones achieved so far by the federation in the presence of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) committee in charge of the biennial showpiece.

“The response from them was positive; we had a good presentation and showed them where we are and they, in turn, gave us a lot of technical advice on what we need to do next.

“There will be further inspections by CAF soon so we need to step up the gear going forward to get the job done before they come around again,” Mwendwa told Citizen Digital.

He acknowledged a lot is yet to be done, noting that while at least three venues will be required for use in order to successfully host the competitions, only Safaricom Kasarani Stadium meets the required threshold.

“We are not yet good because there are several things we ought to have done by now that we have not, but we are aware the budget has been sent to the treasury awaiting cabinet meeting for approval. By now it should have been gazette so that the local organizing committee has its work cut out.

“Kasarani is not a concern but Nyayo needs a lot of work. We need VIP boxes sorted out, have more changing rooms and proper lighting among other elements, although it’s easier than the two other stadia.

According to Mwendwa, Mombasa County stadium is the third definite option while either Moi Stadium Kisumu, Eldoret’s Kipchoge Keino or Meru’s Kinoru Stadium will be decided for the fourth venue.

“We don’t have any problem with other infrastructure, only playing infrastructure is a challenge. We have taken a big risk and we must do our best to get it right,” concluded Mwendwa.

Kenya was picked by CAF’s Executive Committee to host the tournament in February, following what the body termed as ‘receipt of necessary government guarantees and complete dossier, including the required infrastructure and security.