Harambee Stars Pull Out of CECAFA Four Nations Tournament at Last Minute
The move comes barely two weeks before the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), for which the CECAFA tournament was meant to serve as a key preparatory event.
Harambee Stars players in action during a previous training session for a World Cup qualifier. Photo: FKF.
By Robert Assad
The Harambee Stars have sensationally withdrawn from the CECAFA Four Nations Tournament just hours before they were set to face Uganda in the opening match on Monday, July 21, in Tanzania.
In an official statement, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) confirmed the team’s sudden pullout, citing recommendations from head coach Benni McCarthy and his technical bench.
“The decision has been made following recommendations and advice from the team’s technical bench, led by head coach Benni McCarthy, after a thorough assessment of the prevailing conditions, which were deemed unsuitable for the team’s participation and overall preparation,” the FKF statement read.
The move comes barely two weeks before the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), for which the CECAFA tournament was meant to serve as a key preparatory event.
What makes the decision even more shocking is that the Harambee Stars had already landed in Tanzania and were gearing up to clash with arch-rivals Uganda in the tournament’s curtain-raiser at Karatu Stadium.
The CECAFA Four Nations Tournament had lined up four teams: hosts Tanzania, Uganda, guest team Senegal, and Kenya. The sudden exit now leaves a dent in the tournament’s logistics and competitive balance.
“The team will now return to Kenya to adequately prepare for CHAN,” FKF confirmed, adding that all focus will now shift toward ensuring “optimal readiness” for the continental assignment.
The withdrawal has stirred disappointment across regional football circles, especially as Senegal had stepped in just days earlier to replace Congo Brazzaville, who also pulled out due to “logistical challenges.”
Kenya’s late exit has cast uncertainty over the tournament’s structure, with organisers potentially forced to rearrange fixtures or play with fewer teams. Critics have pointed out that an earlier withdrawal would have allowed CECAFA to scout for a replacement, avoiding the current scheduling mess.
New Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy, unveiled in March 2025, has made it clear that his priority is to deliver results in CHAN. Skipping the tournament, however controversial, seems aligned with his broader vision for team preparedness.
“FKF remains committed to providing the national team with the best possible environment to compete and represent the country with pride,” the federation emphasized.
As fans and analysts react to the dramatic exit, one thing is clear: Kenya’s national team isn’t willing to compromise on CHAN preparations – even if it means stepping on a few regional toes.
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