Concerns raised over AFCON 2027 preparations in East Africa

Concerns have emerged over the pace of preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which is expected to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Media reports indicate that some key infrastructure projects, including the renovation and construction of stadiums, are still facing delays. This has raised questions about the readiness of the three countries ahead of the tournament, which is scheduled to take place in 2027.

According to a report by the French newspaper Le Monde, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has been exploring alternative solutions in case the preparations by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania fail to meet the required standards.

Several countries have reportedly been mentioned as possible alternatives, including Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, South Africa and Côte d’Ivoire.

However, CAF has not officially announced the removal of hosting rights from Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. CAF President Patrice Motsepe has said that the organisation continues to support the three East African countries and that there is currently no official plan to move the tournament elsewhere.

CAF has been conducting inspections to assess infrastructure development in the three countries, while stressing the need to accelerate preparations.

AFCON 2027 is scheduled to take place from June 19 to July 17, 2027, marking the first time the tournament will be jointly hosted by three East African nations.

The main issue now is whether Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania will be able to complete the stadiums, infrastructure and other essential preparations required by CAF on time.

By  Michael Ateku