Heavy police presence around Kasarani ahead of Harambee Stars match

A strong police deployment was visible along Thika Superhighway near the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, ahead of the CHAN 2024 clash between Kenya’s Harambee Stars and Zambia’s Chipolopolo scheduled for 3:00 PM on Sunday, August 17, 2025.

Rows of uniformed officers and a convoy of police lorries patrolled the busy highway, creating a visible and commanding presence far larger than seen during previous matches.

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The sight of officers stationed at key intersections and armoured vehicles rumbling past gave fans and commuters alike a sense of order even before the match began.

Fans began arriving early, with authorities aiming to prevent a repeat of incidents witnessed during Kenya’s earlier matches against Morocco and DR Congo. Sections of Thika Road near Ruiru and Muthaiga were blocked, while vehicles were barred from using the Roysambu roundabout, forcing motorists to follow alternative routes.

The heightened security followed sanctions imposed on the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after fans forced their way into Kasarani during the Morocco fixture.

CAF had fined Kenya Ksh6.4 million for breaching multiple security protocols, including allowing supporters without tickets to overrun barricades and exceed the stadium’s safe capacity.

Kasarani Stadium’s capacity has been reduced to 27,000 seats, 60 per cent of its usual limit, in compliance with CAF regulations following sanctions on the Football Kenya Federation for previous security breaches.

In response to the CAF penalty, the National Police Service posted a clear advisory on X, prohibiting vehicles from using Thika Road unless travelling directly to the stadium.

Commuters and fans were directed to alternative routes such as Kiambu Road, Limuru Road, and the Eastern Bypass to prevent traffic congestion. Sections of Thika Road near Ruiru and Muthaiga were blocked, with officers managing diversions and ensuring smooth flow to Kasarani.

Authorities also encouraged fans to arrive early, follow police instructions, and utilise designated public viewing areas across Nairobi. The combination of increased deployment, roadblocks, and alternative routes was designed to maintain safety, reduce crowding, and guarantee that the Harambee Stars match proceeds without