The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, has revealed the motivation behind the significant increase in prize money for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN), which is to be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
This year’s edition is already generating excitement, not only for its historic three-nation hosting but also for its unprecedented financial rewards and a brand-new trophy.
For the first time in CHAN history, the tournament champions will walk away with a staggering $3.5 million — a 75% increase from the previous prize. The runners-up will earn $1.2 million, while the third and fourth-place teams will receive $700,000 and $600,000 respectively.
In addition, the four losing quarter-finalists will each take home $450,000. Teams finishing third and fourth in the group stage will also be rewarded with $300,000 and $200,000 respectively, depending on the group structure.
“We are excited about the CAF African Nations Championship Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda 2024, and have significantly increased the winner’s prize to $3.5 million — a 75% rise,” said Motsepe. “The total prize pool now stands at $10.4 million, which is a 32% increase overall. CHAN is crucial for the development of Africa-based footballers and young talent and plays a vital role in strengthening the global competitiveness of African football.”
Motsepe emphasized that the tournament forms part of CAF’s broader vision of investing in African football and making the sport more attractive to fans, broadcasters, sponsors, and stakeholders across the continent and around the world.
Scheduled to take place from August 2 to 30, CHAN 2024 will be the first edition hosted jointly by three countries. Reserved exclusively for players plying their trade in domestic African leagues, matches will be staged in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Kampala, and Nairobi.
Debutants Central African Republic are set to make their first appearance in Group B, facing off against hosts Tanzania, Madagascar, Mauritania, and Burkina Faso.
Defending champions Senegal, who triumphed over Algeria in a dramatic penalty shootout in the last edition, will begin their title defense in Group D — where they’ll face stiff competition from Congo, Sudan, and Nigeria.
Nevertheless, the opening fixture of the tournament saw, Tanzania beat Burkina Faso 2-0 on Saturday evening.
