AFCON 2027: CAF Backs Kenya-Uganda-Tanzania Hosting Bid to Set New Records

The Confederation of African Football has given its strongest endorsement yet to the Kenya-Uganda-Tanzania joint bid to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Speaking at a media briefing in Cairo, CAF president Patrice Motsepe said the East African consortium's proposal has the potential to surpass Morocco 2025 as the most successful AFCON in history.

Infrastructure Progress

The three-nation bid centres on upgraded and newly built stadiums across Nairobi, Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, Kampala, and Kisumu. Kenya's Nyayo National Stadium has already undergone a major renovation, demonstrated during the recent Kip Keino Classic which drew over 40,000 spectators. Uganda's Namboole Stadium renovation is on schedule, while Tanzania's Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam is expected to expand to 80,000 capacity.

Economic Impact

CAF's economic projections estimate the tournament could generate over $2.5 billion in combined economic activity across the three host nations. Tourism is expected to receive a massive boost, with the proximity of safari destinations, Indian Ocean beaches, and mountain trekking offering visitors a uniquely East African experience alongside world-class football. Hotel capacity across the three countries has doubled since the bid was submitted.

What It Means for Kenyan Football

For Kenya, hosting AFCON 2027 would be transformative. The last time Kenya hosted a major continental football tournament was the 1987 All-Africa Games. FKF president Nick Mwendwa said the tournament will accelerate grassroots development, with legacy programmes already being designed to use tournament infrastructure for youth academies and community football after the final whistle.

The official host announcement is expected before the end of June, but CAF's public backing makes the East African bid the overwhelming favourite. For Kenyan sports fans, the dream of watching the continent's best on home soil is closer than ever.