NAIROBI – East African football legends Mrisho Ngassa of Tanzania and Victor Wanyama of Kenya have expressed confidence that the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 will leave a lasting impact on the growth of local leagues across the region.

For the first time in history, CHAN has been co-hosted by three nations – Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania – with the monthlong competition bringing football fever to East Africa. As the tournament reaches its climax, with Uganda hosting the third-place playoff today and Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani staging tomorrow’s final, the ripple effects are already being felt.

Speaking during the CHAN trophy media tour across Nairobi’s top media houses – including Citizen TV, KTN, Standard Group, and Cape Media’s TV47 and Radio47 – the two ambassadors highlighted how the tournament has reignited passion for domestic football.

“East Africa has shown its quality; all three hosts reached the quarterfinals,” said Ngassa. “The experience players gain here will strengthen our leagues. This tournament has restored pride in local football and inspired many to aim for future CHAN editions.”

Wanyama echoed the sentiment, praising the strong fan turnouts across venues. “Even matches without the Harambee Stars attracted huge numbers in Kenya,” he said. “This proves CHAN has reignited love for football regionally. Fans lifting players’ morale is what will raise our league standards.”

Both icons also praised the competitive nature of the tournament, noting its unpredictability. “Kenya and Tanzania topped their groups, but it’s Morocco and Madagascar – both runners-up – who made the final. That shows the quality and balance across teams,” Ngassa added.

With packed stadiums, rising enthusiasm, and renewed faith in local talent, CHAN 2024 may be remembered not just for crowning a champion but for sparking a new era in East African football.