President William Ruto has appealed to Kenyans to uphold order and respect Confederation of African Football (CAF) rules during Sunday’s clash, warning that any disruption could damage the country’s standing as a trusted host for major tournaments.

“Mimi nawaomba wakenya, tafadhali tusichome mechi, tuhakikishe kwamba tunafuata taratibu kuambatana na sheria za CAF,” he said, urging fans to safeguard the event’s success.

Translation: I appeal to Kenyans, please do not cause chaos during matches, let's ensure that we follow the procedures in accordance with CAF rules.

Ruto said the Nairobi County Government and the Ministry of Sports will set up fan zones across the city and in other regions, equipped with large screens to enable those without tickets to watch the game. He noted this will ensure inclusivity while reducing pressure on the Kasarani Stadium.

“Those with tickets must be orderly, and those without will still enjoy the match from fan spaces. Let us protect our team’s and our country’s chances,” he urged. He described hosting CHAN for the first time as a historic moment and a vital step towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host.

His remarks follow similar calls from Local Organising Committee chairperson Nicholas Musonye, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, and Harambee Stars players.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said six official fan zones have been established in Nairobi to curb overcrowding at Kasarani. The sites include Uhuru Park (CBD), Lucky Summer–Ngomo area (behind Kasarani Stadium), Dandora Stadium, Utalii (Stima Club), Jacaranda Grounds, and Kibera DC Grounds.

“These fan zones will bring the stadium atmosphere closer to the people, while helping us manage attendance at Kasarani in line with CAF’s requirements,” Mvurya said. Each venue will have big screens for live viewing and will be guarded by adequate police officers to maintain safety.

The decision followed a high-level security meeting attended by CAF Head of Safety and Security Christian Emeruwa, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, and other senior officials.

The measures come after chaotic scenes marred Kenya’s group-stage victory over Morocco on August 10. Gates were broken, ticketless fans forced entry, restricted areas were breached, and overcrowding became dangerous. Tear gas was reportedly used outside the stadium to disperse crowds.

CAF fined the Football Kenya Federation Sh6.45 million (USD 50,000) for safety breaches and warned that repeat incidents could result in Kenya losing hosting rights or having matches relocated. Additional penalties from earlier lapses in the DR Congo match included Sh644,500 for stampede and unauthorised entry, and Sh1.29 million for the assault and obstruction of CAF officials and guests.

Under new CAF rules, Sunday’s match attendance has been capped at 60 per cent capacity, or about 27,000 fans. Entry will only be allowed to holders of digital tickets, while thermal-printed tickets have been banned. The Local Organising Committee has also been ordered to run a public awareness campaign on the new regulations.