Africa-Press – Kenya. A surge of excitement rippled across East Africa on Sunday night as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ceremoniously handed over the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) flag to Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
The handover marked the historic moment the region was officially entrusted with the 36th edition of Africa’s most prestigious football tournament—a dream decades in the making, now pulsating with possibility.
Under the banner of Pamoja AFCON 2027, the three nations carry more than a tournament; they carry the weight of expectation, pride, and the promise of a footballing renaissance.
From Nairobi’s bustling streets to Kampala’s historic avenues and Dar es Salaam’s vibrant coastlines, East Africa is awakening to the reality that it is no longer just a participant in African football—it is the stage-setter.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe framed the moment with gravitas during the handover ceremony, an event that blended pomp, protocol and palpable anticipation.
“Over to you, East Africa — we must not let Africa down,” he said, handing the flag to the host representatives. His words echoed across the halls, a clarion call to nations eager to prove themselves on a continental stage long dominated by the West and North Africa.
Kenya’s moment of triumph
For Kenya, hosting AFCON is far more than a milestone; it is the culmination of years of strategic planning, investment in infrastructure, and cultivation of organisational expertise.
In an interview, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya spoke with quiet authority and pride. “Kenya is ready,” he said.
“We have the infrastructure, the teams, and the experience needed to host an AFCON of the highest standards. From Nyayo Stadium to Kasarani, our facilities are prepared to welcome Africa and the world.”
Mvurya emphasised that CHAN 2024 had served as a vital rehearsal, a chance to test logistics, security, and media management on a continental scale.
“After delivering what is widely regarded as the most successful CHAN in history, we are confident that AFCON 2027 will surpass all expectations,” he said. “This is about more than football—it is about demonstrating Kenya’s capacity to host world-class events.”
FKF president Hussein Mohamed and CHAN 2024 LOC chairman Nicholas Musonye/HANDOUTSports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi offered a vivid update on stadium preparations, painting a picture of a nation racing toward readiness.
“Talanta Stadium, which will host the opening ceremony, is 90 per cent complete. Kasarani Stadium is being fine-tuned, especially the playing surface, and Nyayo National Stadium is set to receive a modern canopy and state-of-the-art technical installations,” he said.
“Every detail is being meticulously attended to, with CAF oversight guiding our work.”
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Hussein Mohammed framed the just-concluded showpiece in Morocco as a triumph for the entire region.
“The tournament marks a proud moment for East Africa as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania officially take the reins for AFCON 2027,” Mohammed said.
“We went benchmarking in Morocco to learn from their experience, and we are determined to make this tournament bigger, better, and unforgettable. This is our moment to shine.”
A towering testament to Kenya’s ambition, Talanta Stadium in Nairobi’s Jamhuri area is poised to become one of East Africa’s most iconic arenas. With a 60,000-seat capacity, the stadium is slated to host the opening ceremony and key continental matches.
Speaking during the Kakamega Governor’s Cup finals, President William Ruto confirmed that the facility would open this January, ahead of schedule.
“Talanta Stadium, which I proposed be renamed Raila Odinga International Stadium, will be completed this January. We will begin using it immediately, ahead of its role in the 2027 AFCON games,” Ruto said.
Beyond football, the stadium will host concerts, international events, and cultural gatherings, featuring a shopping mall, hotel, VIP lounges, seven modern changing rooms, fully equipped media centres, and VAR booths integrated with goal-line technology.
Talanta is more than a stadium; it is a beacon of Kenya’s determination to claim a place on the global sports map.
Ruto emphasised that the stadium is part of a broader national strategy to unlock sporting talent.
“We are building 21 stadiums nationwide to ensure Kenya’s youth can harness their talent across sports. By providing the right infrastructure, we can cultivate the next generation of champions,” he said.
The President also announced 1.4 billion shillings to complete Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega County, the largest facility in Western Kenya, signalling a commitment to regional sporting growth.
Harambee Stars players during a training session/HANDOUTUganda, Tanzania join the continental spotlight
Across the border, Uganda’s Fufa President Moses Hassim Magogo radiated equal passion and confidence.
“This will be the first time East Africa hosts the AFCON, and our goal is to make it grand and unforgettable,” he stated.
“The handover of the CAF flag marks the start of our journey. We have learned from previous tournaments, and we are confident that Uganda, alongside Kenya and Tanzania, will deliver a championship worthy of Africa’s attention.”
Magogo highlighted the broader impact of hosting AFCON. “This tournament is not just about football—it is about boosting economic growth, tourism, and regional cooperation. AFCON 2027 will shine a global spotlight on East African talent and showcase our culture and hospitality to the world,” he said.
Uganda’s preparation strategy has stressed operational excellence, security, and the fan experience.
“We are equipping volunteers, staff and officials with the skills needed to guarantee seamless operations in stadiums, fan parks and media centres. Our aim is for every visitor to feel secure, appreciated and inspired,” Magogo said.
In Tanzania, Minister Paul Makonda framed AFCON 2027 as a transformative opportunity.
“Sharing the hosting rights for AFCON is about nurturing a strong sporting culture from the grassroots, involving the youth, and laying a lasting base for football growth for many years to come,” he said.
Makonda reported that Arusha International Stadium is over 70 per cent complete, while Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar are in the final stages of construction.
He elaborated on youth-focused programmes designed to leave a lasting legacy: school competitions, teacher training, and community football initiatives aimed at feeding talent into national teams.
“We want every child in Tanzania to grow up believing they can one day wear the Taifa Stars jersey or even feature at the World Cup,” Makonda said.
Permanent Secretary Gerson Msigwa underscored the meticulous attention to CAF standards. “Every stadium, pitch, and training ground is being prepared to meet international expectations. AFCON 2027 will not just be a tournament—it will be a showcase of East Africa’s potential,” he said.
Despite the optimism, critics have raised concerns about East Africa’s readiness. Ivorian journalist Mamadou Gaye questioned infrastructure and transport networks.
Harambee Stars’ fans during the 2024 CHAN tournament at Moi Stadium, Kasarani/HANDOUTCAF President Motsepe responded firmly, framing the challenge as part of Africa’s broader football development.
“Limiting tournaments to countries with the best roads or stadiums stifles African football,” Motsepe said.
“East Africa is ready. The passion, commitment, and vision of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania will make this tournament a resounding success.”
The proposed venues demonstrate a balance between infrastructure readiness and regional inclusion. Kenya’s matches are planned for Nairobi, Eldoret, and Kakamega; Tanzania’s in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Dodoma, and Zanzibar; Uganda’s in Kampala, Lira, and Hoima.
Beyond stadiums, governments are investing in roads, hotels, transport systems, fan zones, media centres, and security measures. This reflects a modern approach to tournament planning—one that integrates sporting, social, and economic dimensions for lasting impact.
Youth engagement is central to the co-hosting vision. Tanzanian school tournaments, Kenya’s grassroots initiatives, and Uganda’s youth football camps aim to cultivate talent and community pride. “AFCON 2027 is more than a tournament; it is a movement,” Makonda said.
CAF and local officials emphasise that the legacy will be measured not only in trophies but in the long-term upliftment of football, infrastructure, and civic engagement.
PS Mwangi highlighted the symbolic weight: “AFCON 2027 is about raising standards, inspiring young people, and proving that East Africa can deliver at the highest level. We are committed to leaving behind infrastructure, knowledge, and sporting culture that will benefit generations.”
The tournament is expected to inject billions into East Africa’s economy. Hotels, restaurants, transport services, and entertainment sectors are projected to thrive as thousands of visitors from across Africa and the world descend on host cities.
Magogo emphasised, “AFCON 2027 is a chance to show East Africa as a hub for sport, culture, and investment.”
This will be the first time East Africa hosts AFCON since Ethiopia in 1976 and the first-ever tri-nation on the continent—a historic milestone for Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The experience of CHAN 2024, where the three nations successfully managed logistics, stadium operations, and media coverage, has bolstered confidence and inspired regional ambition.
From the bustling streets of Nairobi to the vibrant culture of Dar es Salaam and the historic avenues of Kampala, the countdown to AFCON 2027 is more than a timeline—it is the beating heart of a region united by football.
Every corner of East Africa is now mobilising. Nairobi prepares for the tournament draw at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre.
Kampala coordinates city logistics and fan services, while Dar es Salaam ensures stadium readiness and training ground perfection. Governments, football federations, and communities are working in concert to guarantee a tournament that will resonate across the continent.
From infrastructure to grassroots programmes, fan engagement to international coordination, East Africa is positioning itself to host a tournament that will be remembered for generations. “We have the capacity; we have what it takes,” Mwangi said.
“AFCON 2027 will be a celebration of Africa in East Africa, and we are ready.”
