The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is intensifying its preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), a major continental tournament dedicated exclusively to players active in their national leagues. The championship, which takes place every two years, is scheduled to kick off in August and will, for the first time in the competition’s history, be jointly hosted by three East African nations Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
CAF’s strategic push
The decision to jointly host the CHAN tournament reflects CAF’s strategic push to foster regional cooperation and to spread the economic and developmental benefits of hosting major tournaments across multiple African nations. The 2024 edition will also serve as a litmus test for infrastructure, logistics, and administrative readiness, especially as East Africa continues to lobby for future hosting rights of larger continental events, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
CAF has been working closely with the football federations of the three host countries to ensure the seamless delivery of the tournament. This includes ongoing stadium renovations, security coordination, hospitality services, and ticketing systems designed to accommodate the influx of fans, teams, and officials.
Tecno Mobile Comes on Board
In a significant commercial development, CAF is set to officially unveil Chinese mobile phone manufacturer Tecno Mobile as the official sponsor of the 2024 CHAN. The sponsorship deal, finalized in recent days, represents a strategic partnership aimed at leveraging Tecno’s growing influence on the African continent, particularly among the youth demographic.
According to insiders within CAF, the deal includes branding rights, advertising privileges, and digital engagement campaigns throughout the tournament. Tecno Mobile, which already has a strong marketing presence in several African markets, is expected to roll out a series of continent-wide promotional activities in the buildup to the championship.
The official announcement and unveiling ceremony of the sponsorship agreement is scheduled to take place later today. CAF is expected to release more details during the event, including the value of the sponsorship package, activation plans, and Tecno’s role in promoting African football development.
Tournament Expectations and Fan Engagement
This year’s CHAN is expected to draw participation from 18 teams, representing the best of domestic-based talent across the continent. Unlike the Africa Cup of Nations, CHAN only features players who play in their home country leagues, making it a showcase for homegrown talent and a scouting ground for international clubs.
CAF President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, recently emphasized the importance of CHAN in developing local leagues and providing a platform for players who may not otherwise gain international exposure. “CHAN is a celebration of Africa’s local football heroes. It is a critical tool for empowering our leagues, our clubs, and our communities,” Motsepe said.
Looking Ahead
As CAF counts down to the August kick-off, there are high hopes that the joint hosting model and increased commercial interest will elevate CHAN’s visibility and impact. With Tecno Mobile on board as a headline sponsor, the tournament is expected to reach new heights in terms of branding, fan engagement, and global reach.
The success of the 2024 CHAN will likely influence CAF’s future strategic decisions around tournament hosting, sponsorship alignment, and the broader development of African football
About the Author
