The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, served as a crucial preparatory event for the much-anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027. Despite facing various challenges, the tournament was widely regarded as a resounding success, offering valuable lessons and showcasing the continent's passion for football. Amidst the grandeur of the championship, individual excellence was also recognized, with Harambee Stars winger Boniface Muchiri promoted to the rank of Corporal in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) for his outstanding performance.

Boniface Muchiri's promotion from Senior Private to Corporal was a direct acknowledgment of his stellar contributions to the Harambee Stars during their impressive run to the CHAN 2024 quarter-finals. The ceremony was presided over by the Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri, who lauded Muchiri's exemplary discipline, commitment, and excellence both on and off the pitch. Muchiri, who also captains the KDF’s football club Ulinzi Stars and has been a top scorer for three consecutive seasons, was instrumental for the national team, providing two crucial assists in the tournament. His promotion followed a special request by Harambee Stars captain Abud Omar to President William Ruto, highlighting the KDF's commitment to nurturing and rewarding talent.

The tournament itself marked a historic moment for Kenya, hosting a major continental event for the first time in years. It introduced Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology to the three host nations, a significant step forward for regional football. Beyond the on-pitch action, organizers meticulously crafted a holistic experience, ensuring a warm Kenyan welcome for visiting teams with cultural dancers and hospitality. Teams like the Black Antelopes of Angola even enjoyed a tour of Nairobi National Park, showcasing Kenya's rich tourist attractions. The warmth of the Kenyan people was widely praised, with Zambia's Head Coach Avram Grant expressing his gratitude for the reception.

Fan engagement during CHAN 2024 was exceptional, with Kenya recording significantly higher attendance compared to its co-hosts. Thousands flocked to Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums, creating an electric atmosphere. Despite restrictions on carrying items like vuvuzelas, whistles, and flags, fans demonstrated remarkable ingenuity, using their voices, claps, and even writing messages on their jerseys to express their passion. The collective roar of the crowd was deafening, turning every clearance and goal into an unforgettable experience. Fan zones were also set up across Nairobi to accommodate the overwhelming demand, ensuring that the spirit of CHAN permeated various neighborhoods.

The climax of CHAN 2024 saw Madagascar face Morocco in a thrilling final at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on August 30. The stadium was packed to capacity, embodying a festival of football and a celebration of unity. Dignitaries, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, were present, underscoring the event's global significance. Morocco, eyeing a record third CHAN trophy, emerged victorious with a 3-2 win in a pulsating encounter. Oussama Lamlioui was the hero for the Atlas Lions, scoring crucial goals, including a spectacular long-range shot that sealed the victory and earned him the tournament's top scorer award with six goals. Morocco bagged the Sh453 million cash prize, while Madagascar received Sh155 million as runners-up.

Despite the overall success, CHAN 2024 exposed critical areas for improvement for Kenya, particularly concerning its readiness for AFCON 2027. Infrastructure shortfalls, such as the relocation of Group D matches to Zanzibar due to facility readiness issues, highlighted the need for urgent upgrades to training pitches, lighting, dressing rooms, and VAR infrastructure. Ticketing proved chaotic, with allegations of individuals hawking tickets and the emergence of fake online platforms, leading to thousands being conned and denied entry. Security breaches, including crowd congestion and forced entries at stadium gates, resulted in fines from CAF and threats to move matches, emphasizing the need for robust security measures and a streamlined e-ticketing system for future events.

On the final day of CHAN 2024, President William Ruto hosted FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe at State House Nairobi. President Ruto received several significant gifts, including the official match ball of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final and a FIFA jersey labeled number 1, symbolizing Kenya's contribution to global football. The meeting also included a pennant exchange, a gesture of mutual respect. Crucially, FIFA committed to supporting the development of a Sh600 million National Technical Centre in Machakos, which will also serve as the headquarters for the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), marking a strategic investment in the country's football future.

The closing ceremony featured a star-studded lineup with performances by Tanzanian singer Zuchu, Kenya’s Savara, and Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo. While Zuchu's performance was largely described as electrifying and resonated well with many fans, it also generated mixed reactions and online discussions. These tensions, fueled by past comments and a