2024 TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN): Everything you need to know
The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) – the premier tournament for Africa’s home-based national footballers – will be staged from 2 to 30 August 2025, across three East African countries: Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
This will be the eighth edition of the biennial competition organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the first time it will be jointly hosted by three countries – a significant step in preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
What is CHAN?
Unlike the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the CHAN tournament features only players who play in their national domestic leagues.
That means no European-based stars – only local talent representing their countries.
It is a showcase of Africa’s best homegrown players, often providing a springboard for emerging stars to secure moves abroad.
Who is hosting CHAN 2024?
In a historic move, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda will jointly host CHAN 2024, marking the first triple-hosting in the tournament’s history.
The decision is also a dress rehearsal for the 2027 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, which will also be hosted by the East African trio.
CAF selected the three nations as co-hosts on 17 December 2023, and the final tournament will be played from 2-30 August 2025.
Who has qualified?
A total of 19 teams will compete, with notable names including:
Senegal (defending champions)
Morocco (two-time winners)
DR Congo (record winners with two titles)
Nigeria, Algeria, Zambia, and debutants like Kenya and Central African Republic
Libya was initially qualified but withdrew due to scheduling conflicts.
The tournament format
The 19 teams are divided into four groups:
Groups A, B, and C will each have five teams
Group D will have four teams
The top two from each group will advance to the quarter-finals, followed by semi-finals, a third-place playoff, and the final.
What’s at stake?
For players, it’s a chance to gain continental exposure and catch the eye of international scouts. For fans, it’s a celebration of African football identity, where local leagues and grassroots talents shine.
CHAN has been the launchpad for stars like Tresor Mputu, Given Singuluma, Aoytub El Kaabi, Soufiane Rahimi and Aymen Mahious, who made their names after strong CHAN campaigns.
Why CHAN 2024 matters
This edition is more than just a football competition. It symbolises:
A regional collaboration between East African countries
A major test of infrastructure and logistics ahead of AFCON 2027
A celebration of African football’s roots – the local leagues and unsung heroes
CAF’s focus on CHAN as a key part of African football development makes this tournament an integral part of the continent’s football calendar.
Key Dates
Final Draw: 15 January 2025, Nairobi
Tournament Dates: 2–30 August 2025
Final Word
With passionate fans, iconic venues, and local pride on full display, CHAN 2024 promises to be a defining moment in African football.
As the clock ticks down, all eyes will be on East Africa, where the next generation of African legends could be born.
This is not just a football tournament. It is Africa’s grassroots game on the grandest stage – and the world is invited to watch.
