The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has granted Kenya approval to host up to 36,000 fans at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, for Friday’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 quarterfinal clash against Madagascar.

The clearance, which allows 80 percent stadium capacity, is a boost from the 27,000 fans admitted during Harambee Stars’ 1-0 win over Zambia last Sunday.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya welcomed the move, noting that CAF is reopening the ticketing portal to accommodate the additional numbers.

“I welcome CAF’s decision to revise stadium attendance to 80 percent, translating to 36,000 tickets,” said Mvurya.

CAF had earlier limited attendance to 60 percent, citing safety concerns, following security breaches during Kenya’s group-stage match against Morocco. In response, authorities tightened security protocols, strengthened crowd-control measures, and launched extensive public awareness campaigns.

Fan zones around Nairobi have also been expanded to 13, easing pressure on Kasarani as Harambee Stars prepare for their maiden CHAN quarterfinal against 2022 bronze medalists Madagascar.

While CAF’s approval is a welcome relief for the government, FKF, and fans, uncertainty lingers over the ticketing process.

Mookh.com, the platform tasked with ticket sales, has come under fire in recent weeks following system crashes, long queues, and complaints of double bookings.

It remains unclear whether the firm will reopen sales to accommodate the additional 11,400 tickets now available, or whether alternative distribution channels will be explored.