NAIROBI, Kenya — Football fans planning to attend the African Nations Championship (CHAN) will be subject to new security protocols, as the tournament’s Local Safety and Security Department has banned a range of items typically associated with the vibrant atmosphere of African football.
The list of prohibited items includes whistles, vuvuzelas, and flags, which are commonly used by fans to generate noise and display team support.
The ban also extends to drums, megaphones, loudspeakers, and any other form of sound-amplifying device.
In a statement released on Thursday, the department urged fans to cooperate with the new regulations.
“We urge all fans to comply with stadium rules and maintain calm. Let us show up in large numbers to support the Harambee Stars and ensure a safe tournament,” the department said.
The restrictions also extend to food and beverages. Spectators are now prohibited from bringing outside food into stadiums unless required for medical or infant-related reasons.
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Drinks, regardless of whether they are in cups, bottles, cans, or sealed containers, have also been blacklisted.
In a notable addition, powdery substances, including flour and baking powder, have been placed on the list of banned items, citing concerns over visibility and potential security risks during matches.
While the measures may appear strict, organizers maintain they are essential to ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees throughout the high-stakes tournament.
The tournament is set to begin on Saturday, August 2, 2025, and fans will be challenged to find new ways to rally their teams to victory within these new guidelines.
