Why You Might Miss Harambee Stars Match Against Zambia Following CAF Directive

Harambee Stars supporters during the Harambee Stars vs. Morocco match on Sunday, August 10th. / X: Harambee Stars

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) on August 11th imposed strict new measures on Kenya’s home matches at Kasarani Stadium after repeated security lapses during recent Harambee Stars fixtures.

The decision comes after CAF cited "serious security failures" that jeopardized the safety of fans, staff, and the tournament's integrity.

In a letter addressed to the officials of the Football Kenya Federation, CAF highlighted several violations, including fans without tickets overrunning the stadium gates, inadequate crowd control, violent acts like stone-throwing at security staff, and the deployment of tear gas and flash grenades near the audience.

Kenyans breach Kasarani gate to access the Harambee Stars and Morocco match on August 10,2025 / Screengrab

“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,” the statement read.

Additional concerns encompassed insufficient police response, absence of medical incident documentation, ineffective communication tools, and a lack of CCTV coverage at crucial locations.

CAF’s New Directives for Kasarani Matches:

Effective immediately, CAF has ordered the following:

1. Capacity Restriction – The stadium will only be allowed to operate at 60% capacity, capping ticket sales at 27,000.

   
   

2. Electronic Ticketing Only – Entry will be limited strictly to fans with electronic tickets. Thermal tickets will not be accepted.

   
   

3. Public Compliance Campaign – The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and the government must launch a public media campaign to reinforce safety protocols and entry requirements.

CAF has cautioned that non-compliance might result in stricter penalties, such as relocating Kenya's upcoming home matches to different venues.

The directives follow earlier warnings and sanctions that did not succeed in enhancing crowd management and stadium security.

During the Harambee Stars vs. Morocco match on Sunday, August 10th, reports indicated that gates were broken, fans entered en masse without valid tickets, the venue was overcrowded beyond its capacity, the media center was invaded, and police used tear gas to manage the crowds.

Mookh Africa, the ticketing service provider, stated: “Due to the security breach at Kasarani yesterday, ticket sales for games at Kasarani have been halted until the organisers provide further notice.”

CAF states that these actions are designed to ensure fan safety, rebuild confidence, and safeguard the competition's integrity.

For Harambee Stars supporters, this implies a reduction in available seats, more rigorous entry inspections, and the risk of missing games if the new regulations are not strictly adhered to.