The Bars, Hotels, and Liquor Traders Association (BAHLITA) has made a passionate appeal to well-wishers and stakeholders to sponsor match tickets for fans unable to afford entry into the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament.
Speaking during a press statement issued on Monday, BAHLITA Secretary-General Boniface Gachoka expressed deep concern after witnessing over 20,000 football lovers stranded outside Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, during a recent Kenya match. Despite the stadium’s capacity of 60,000, only 44,000 were admitted—leaving thousands of passionate fans disappointed and voiceless.
“Many of those left outside were youth from informal settlements, students, persons with disabilities, and other low-income Kenyans who simply couldn’t afford a ticket,” Gachoka lamented.
BAHLITA, which represents 54,000 members across 42 counties, recently launched its Sports, Health, and Wellness Department during its 2024 Annual General Meeting. One of the department’s key goals is to mobilize support for access to sports events, especially for the underprivileged.
Already, BAHLITA members have pooled funds to purchase 1,000 tickets for traders, their families, employees, and some members of the public. But with the overwhelming turnout and unmet demand, the association is now reaching out to corporations, businesses, churches, bloggers, civic-minded individuals, and all Kenyans of goodwill to join the cause.
“Let’s not leave our fans outside the gates while the stadium still has space,” said Gachoka. “We are committed to knocking on every door until every passionate fan can cheer Kenya from the stands.”
BAHLITA also emphasized that sports are not just entertainment but powerful tools for national unity, mental wellness, and youth empowerment—especially when access is equitable.
Upcoming CHAN fixtures at Kasarani include:
Angola vs Kenya – Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 12:00 PM
Kenya vs Morocco – Monday, August 10, 2025, at 3:00 PM
Kenya vs Zambia – Sunday, [date to be confirmed]
Kenyans are encouraged to contribute to the campaign and ensure that the stadium atmosphere reflects the full spirit of the 12th man—the fan.