Football fans planning to attend the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) will not be allowed to bring vuvuzelas, whistles, megaphones, drums, or any other loud noise-making devices into the stadiums.
On Monday, July 28, the Local Safety and Security Department for the tournament released a detailed list of prohibited items and urged fans to cooperate with the rules for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
The department emphasized the importance of maintaining order and calm during matches and called on supporters to come out in large numbers to cheer on the Harambee Stars and other participating teams. While enthusiastic support is encouraged, certain fan-favorite items will have to be left at home.
Noise-making items, such as vuvuzelas, horns, whistles, megaphones, loudspeakers, and even drums—typically used by fans to create a vibrant stadium atmosphere—have been banned. These items are seen as potential disturbances or safety risks during the games.
In addition to sound-related items, bringing animals to the stadium is strictly forbidden, with the only exception being certified service dogs that assist individuals with disabilities.
Other common but restricted items include food and drinks purchased outside the stadium, unless they are for infants or required for medical reasons. Food bought inside the stadium will be allowed.
Items made of powdery substances like flour, or anything with similar texture, have also been listed as restricted due to safety concerns.
Spectators are also warned against carrying offensive or politically sensitive banners and flags that promote messages targeting race, religion, gender, nationality, political views, or personal identity. Such materials will be confiscated at the gate.
The ban further extends to technological and musical equipment capable of interfering with stadium systems, including devices that could jam broadcasts, communication signals, or disrupt IT infrastructure.
Also banned are containers such as sealed or capped bottles, cups, cans, thermoses, and disposable drink bottles.
Oversized personal belongings will not be permitted either. These include large backpacks, cool boxes, suitcases, step ladders, folding chairs, benches, and similar bulky items that can obstruct movement or be used dangerously in crowded areas.
Illegal drugs, including narcotics and stimulants, are strictly banned from all CHAN venues. Only prescribed medication required for specific health conditions will be allowed, and these must be declared and verified at entry points.
Weapons of any kind—real or imitation—are not permitted under any circumstance. Firearms, ammunition, gun parts, or even items that resemble weapons will be confiscated.
The list of dangerous items also includes sharp, blunt, or heavy tools that could cause harm, as well as explosives, ignition devices, or anything that may contain or conceal such materials.
Spectators are also banned from bringing in helmets of any kind, whether they’re for motorcycles, sports, or construction, due to safety risks.
Other items not allowed into the stadiums include flammable materials like spray paints, liquid fuels, fireworks, gas canisters, smoke bombs, corrosive chemicals, or anything classified as hazardous, toxic, or irritating substances.
Even pressure-sensitive or breakable containers such as glass bottles or chemical-filled tubes have been flagged as a security concern and will be confiscated at the gates.
It’s important to note that many of the now-banned items—like vuvuzelas and whistles—have long been part of the energetic fan experience at football matches, used to cheer teams and boost the atmosphere. However, this year’s CHAN organizers have prioritized fan safety and stadium security, making these changes necessary.
The CHAN 2024 tournament kicks off on Saturday, August 2, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and will conclude on Saturday, August 30, at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Nairobi, Kenya.
Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are co-hosting this edition of CHAN, which will also serve as a key preparation event ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the three East African countries will jointly host.
Fans are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the full list of prohibited items and cooperate with security personnel at all entry points to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and safe tournament experience for everyone.
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