No Drums, No Snacks: Dar es Salaam Enforces New Stadium Protocols for CHAN

Dar es Salaam is gearing up to host the opening of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) tomorrow, but football enthusiasts should be aware of significant changes to stadium entry protocols. 

The tournament, a four-week event featuring 19 nations, begins as Kenya prepares to face the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match on Sunday at the Moi International Sports Centre. Organisers have implemented heightened security measures, including a strict list of prohibited items. This initiative, spearheaded by the Safety and Security Department, aims to create a more controlled environment and bolster safety throughout the championship.

Under these new guidelines, fans will be prohibited from bringing any outside food or beverages into the stadium. This includes sealed containers, commercially packaged snacks, and drinks unless they are medically necessary or intended for infants. Traditional noise-making devices, integral to the vibrant African football culture, are also banned; megaphones, whistles, and all musical instruments are included in this restriction. 

Further, bottles, cups, and cans of any material are not permitted inside the grounds. The exclusion of these items is rooted in security concerns, with specific attention given to objects deemed potentially hazardous. Firearms, replica weapons, sharp tools, and any item that could be used to cause harm or disrupt the matches are strictly forbidden. Similarly, electronic equipment with the capacity to jam signals or interfere with broadcast infrastructure is barred. Offensive signage targeting sensitive social or political issues is also prohibited.

These restrictions have sparked disappointment, particularly among the Congolese diaspora in Kenya. William Saidi, president of the Youth Diaspora Congolese in Kenya, expressed dismay: “We Congolese love music. We had planned to cheer our team in style, so we are disappointed by the ban on items like drums and vuvuzelas,” he stated, adding, “We will have to locate a strategic place where we are well visible to cheer.”

Local Organising Committee chairman Nicholas Musonye has confirmed that fans can anticipate rigorous screening procedures and thorough body searches at stadium entrances.