Insights At a Glance:
- Digital-only tickets, no paper accepted
- Kasarani + Nyayo upgraded: floodlights, VAR, media centers, medical zones
- Still a tech gap: no facial recognition, AI stats, cloud-based media, or wearable health tracking yet
Kenya is buzzing with football fever as we prepare to co-host CHAN 2024 alongside Uganda and Tanzania. But beyond the matches and chants, there’s something even more exciting happening: tech is finally taking its place on the pitch. Just weeks ago, I wrote about the mind-blowing tech innovations at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the USA, from referee body cameras to AI-driven ball tracking, and while we’re not quite there yet, Kenya’s own digital transformation is worth celebrating.
From fully digital ticketing systems to CAF-grade floodlights, VAR facilities, upgraded dressing rooms, and connected medical zones, here’s a deep dive into the tech powering CHAN 2024 and where Kenya still has room to grow.
Ticketing Gone Fully Digital, Finally
For the first time in a major Kenyan football event, 100% digital ticketing is mandatory. No paper, no gate sales, no exceptions. Fans buy tickets via chan.mookh.com, paying with M-PESA or cards, and receive SMS/email confirmations even without a smartphone. At the gates, a four-layer security scan ensures both identity and ticket legitimacy: general screening, ticket scan, bag checks, and guided entry.
The system features:
- Digital-only ticket distribution
- Automated electronic access control
- Real-time crowd count tracking to prevent overcrowding
However, glitches on the CAF platform forced a temporary shutdown, highlighting the need for better infrastructure and contingency.
In contrast, the Club World Cup featured facial recognition, QR code revalidation, and geo-fencing to prevent scams and counterfeits. Kenya is reliably digital, but global hosts go deeper. Sure, Kenya’s system doesn’t go that far yet, but simply requiring fans to plan ahead, transact digitally, and show up is already a major behavioral shift.
Floodlights, Power and HD Broadcasting
Both Nyayo National Stadium and Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani have received major upgrades to meet CAF Category 4 standards, the highest classification for hosting elite tournaments like CHAN and the upcoming AFCON 2027. Floodlights now offer a minimum of 1200-2000 lux (up to 3000 lux) for uniform pitch coverage, critical for high-definition TV broadcasting. These systems are designed to minimize glare and eliminate shadows. Each venue also has independent backup power systems, including instant-on generators to maintain lighting and LED panels in case of outages.
In comparison, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup featured adaptive LED floodlights with automated brightness control and dynamic effects. Kenya isn’t there yet, but the foundation has been laid.
Structural enhancements include:
- Kasarani’s canopy is complete, offering fans weather protection and a modern visual appeal.
- Nyayo Stadium remains open-roofed for now, though future upgrades are planned before AFCON 2027.
- Access routes, warm-up zones, and team entry/exit points have all been modernized to meet international match flow standards.
Compare that to the Club World Cup, where U.S. venues featured smart roofs that adjust transparency, automated pitch temperature systems, and even solar-powered energy grids. Kenya’s upgrades are strong, but foundational.
TV, Broadcast, and VAR Facilities
- Stadiums now feature main camera platforms at a height aligned with the halfway line for optimal 27-35° angles.
- Dedicated TV and radio commentary booths come with power, desks, and internet connectivity.
- A VAR/Video Operations Room (VOR) has been set up near the OB van area. The room includes:
- Sound isolation
- Dual power sources (32A mono-phase)
- 5 seats, 3 desks
- High-speed internet
- Direct, private, and secure access to the pitch
At the Club World Cup, however, VAR was AI-assisted with automated offside detection, gesture-controlled replays, and real-time 3D modeling, which remains aspirational for Kenya.
Media Zones and Connectivity
- Each stadium includes a Stadium Media Center with desks, internet, printers, and TV.
- The media tribune offers covered desks with power and internet, placed centrally for an unobstructed view.
- The press conference room features:
- Raised podium
- Camera platform (2m x 3m, 0.5m high)
- Split box, spin system, Wi-Fi
- Seating for at least 50 journalists
- Photographers’ zones are also available behind each goalpost with full connectivity.
Security and Safety Systems
- Fully electronic access control systems have been installed.
- Automated real-time attendance tracking helps avoid overcrowding.
- CCTV cameras monitor all entry/exit points and generator rooms.
- Emergency lighting and PA systems have independent power backups.
Medical and Anti-Doping Facilities
- First aid zones now include:
- Treatment/exam tables
- Oxygen and emergency meds
- Cardiac monitors, defibrillators
- Ventilators, stretchers, capnometers
- Ambulances on both pitch ends
- Doping control rooms offer:
- Waiting area (8+ seats), TV, fridge
- Office with desk, lockable cabinet, washbasin
- Private toilet for sample collection
Dressing Room Tech
Both player and referee dressing rooms feature:
- Refrigerators, internet access
- Televisions, massage tables
- Tactical boards and first aid kits
- Ice baths and non-slip flooring
- Separate access routes away from spectators
While CHAN 2024 doesn’t yet rival the glitz of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, it represents a massive leap for Kenyan football infrastructure. From online ticketing and VAR to CAF-approved floodlights, stadium access to medical tech, there’s no denying the progress. What’s even more exciting? This is just the warm-up. Compared to the ultra-connected Club World Cup venues in the U.S., yes, we’re still behind. But this isn’t just a dress rehearsal for CHAN. It’s a dry run for AFCON 2027.
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