The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 has issued a formal apology following chaotic scenes that marred Uganda’s opening match against Algeria at Namboole Stadium. A night meant for celebration turned sour as frustrated fans were left without food or drinks, while disturbing reports emerged of security personnel violently ejecting ticketed supporters from the stadium.
The incident, which unfolded on August 4, sent shockwaves through Uganda’s football community and raised questions about the country’s preparedness to host a tournament of CHAN’s magnitude. Dozens of fans, some bearing valid entry tickets, were reportedly manhandled, dragged away by security, and denied access to essential amenities due to a mysterious closure of all internal canteens. For many, the experience overshadowed the Cranes’ disappointing 3-0 loss to a dominant Algerian side.
Mark Namanya, Communications Secretary of CHAN 2024, addressed the public outcry with a candid admission of fault. “We regret whatever happened, and we’re not proud of it,” he said during a press briefing. “Every fan with a ticket should be able to access the game, enjoy the match, and leave with beautiful memories, not bruises.” Namanya attributed the fiasco to a miscommunication surrounding vendor management, assuring stakeholders that corrective measures are underway.
Following emergency consultations with CAF, the LOC has confirmed that dedicated service providers will now manage stadium canteens during match days, in strict adherence to continental standards. The swift move is seen as damage control ahead of Uganda’s next clash against Guinea this Friday at 8:00 p.m., a must-win encounter if the Cranes hope to stay afloat in a tightly contested Group C that also features Guinea.
While the apology has momentarily quelled the storm, the spotlight is now firmly on the LOC to deliver a seamless fan experience going forward. Ugandan supporters, passionate, loyal, and long-suffering, deserve more than empty promises. As the Cranes prepare for redemption on the pitch, the real redemption story may have to start off it, with the organizers proving they can host a world-class tournament without chaos.
