In a historic moment for East African football, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has awarded Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania the prestigious hosting rights for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The announcement was made by CAF President Patrice Motsepe following the CAF Executive Committee’s meeting in Cairo, Egypt, where the East Africa Pamoja Bid emerged victorious.
“The future of African football has never been brighter,” Motsepe declared, adding, “In the near future, an African nation will win the World Cup.” The optimism surrounding African football’s future was palpable, and this landmark decision only serves to strengthen the continent’s position on the global football stage.
This triumphant bid by the East African nations surpassed competition from formidable contenders, including Egypt, Senegal, Botswana, and Algeria (who withdrew from the race just days before the official announcement). Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania’s successful bid means that they have secured automatic qualification for the 2027 AFCON as the tournament hosts.
“The 2027 edition is going to be beautiful,” Motsepe commented. He highlighted the unwavering commitment and determination displayed by the three countries’ leaders, underscoring the region’s eagerness to host this prestigious sporting event.
Each of the host nations presented their plans for the tournament. Kenya, for instance, proposed improvements to the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, with the Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret as a third option. Uganda, on the other hand, relied on Namboole Stadium as a guarantee, with potential investments in venues outside the capital. Tanzania’s bid featured the already Caf-certified Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium, along with other venues in Mwanza, Dodoma, Arusha, and Zanzibar.
According to CAF requirements, the host countries must provide match venues located near airports, level five hospitals, and five-star hotels. Additionally, six stadiums are needed to accommodate the 24 participating teams, mirroring the approach taken by the 2021 AFCON hosts, Cameroon, which featured three new stadiums among its six venues.
The costs associated with renovating or building new stadiums, along with the necessary infrastructure like hotels, airports, and roads, can be substantial. In the case of Cameroon, it was estimated at $885 million.
Moreover, each host country or countries must have at least three training grounds near match venues meeting CAF standards. Other prerequisites include the installation of turnstiles at all gates, CCTV monitors, padded VIP and VVIP seats, media facilities, a mixed zone, photographers’ area, OB van area, and VAR operation room.
While Kenya has previously won bids to host AFCON in 1996 and the 2018 Africa Nations Championship, challenges with venue readiness led to the rights being revoked on both occasions.
