The decision was made at a CECAFA Executive Committee meeting held in Sudanese capital Khartoum.

The decision comes despite Kenya being stripped of hosting the 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN) by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) last week.

Doubts had existed for several weeks about Kenya's readiness to host Africa's second-tier competition behind the Africa Cup of Nations following concerns over infrastructure.

The recommendation that Kenya have the Championship taken away from them followed a visit led by CAF second vice-president and FIFA Council member Constant Omari to Nairobi earlier this month. 

They reported that only one of the four venues necessary to stage the tournament, due to take place between January 12 and February 4 next year, was ready. 

The event differs from the higher-level Africa Cup of Nations as only players who represent clubs on the continent are allowed to take part.

There was also concern about the political situation in Kenya, where recently annulled Presidential elections are set to be rerun on October 26. 

It was the second time that Kenya has been stripped of one of CAF's flagship events.

In 1996 they were replaced as hosts of the Africa Cup of Nations by South Africa. 

Kenya would have been the second successive East African country to stage the CHAN after Rwanda in 2016.

Countries interested in hosting CHAN have until today to make an application to CAF.

They plan to make a decision within 15 days of the deadline of bids being submitted.

The CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup brings together all the national teams of the 13 member countries.

It is due to be held in November and December, with specific dates still to be confirmed.

Uganda are the current champions having won a record 14th title in Addis Ababa in December 2015.

They overcame Rwanda 1-0 in the final.

The meeting also saw Burundi and Rwanda named hosts of the CECAFA Under-17 and Women's championships respectively.