The organisers of the 2016 African Nations Championship (CHAN) said on Wednesday that host country Rwanda is ready to stage the tournament, which kicks off this Saturday and runs until February 7.
“We are fully ready to host this high-level competition,” said Vincent Nzamwita, president of the Rwanda Football Federation.
The tournament is organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and is held every two years. It is open only to players who play their football in national leagues and alternates with the higher profile Africa Cup of Nations.
Ivory Coast, Sudan and South Africa have played host in previous tournaments since 2009.
Preparations for the event have been widely reported by the local press and the Rwandan government announced a visa exemption for nationals of competing countries in order to attract fans.
Major renovations were carried out in Kigali, the capital, Huye and Rubavu where games will be played.
“Everything had to be rebuilt,” said Nzamwita, including the pitches, changing rooms and stands.
According to the New Times newspaper, the Rwandan government has spent 16 billion Rwandan francs ($21.4 million) on infrastructure and organisational costs for CHAN 2016.
The tournament will begin on Saturday afternoon when the host team Rwanda tackles Ivory Coast in the opening match in Kigali.
