East Africa’s joint bid to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) was officially sealed on Sunday night after CAF President Patrice Motsepe handed over the tournament flag to Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania under the banner Pamoja AFCON 2027.
The symbolic handover marks the formal start of preparations for the first-ever AFCON to be hosted jointly by three East African nations, a moment football leaders described as historic for the region and the continent.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed said the occasion signalled a new chapter for East African football and a major responsibility for the host nations.
“Tonight marks a proud moment for our region as Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania officially receive the flag to host AFCON 2027,” Hussein said.
“East Africa is ready, and Kenya is looking forward to playing its part in delivering a tournament that will leave a lasting mark on African football.”
Hussein pointed to the region’s recent hosting of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) as proof of its growing capacity to stage major continental tournaments.
“After setting new standards with the most successful CHAN in history, we are determined to raise the bar even higher in 2027,” he said. “The journey begins now.”
CAF President Patrice Motsepe, while handing over the AFCON flag, urged the three countries to deliver a tournament that reflects Africa’s ambition, unity and global football stature.
“Over to you, East Africa — we must not let Africa down,” Motsepe said.
The Pamoja AFCON 2027 tournament is expected to boost regional cooperation, accelerate infrastructure development and shine a global spotlight on East Africa’s football potential, as Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania begin the countdown to one of Africa’s biggest sporting events.
Over the weekend, Ivorian journalist Mamadou Gaye sparked outrage after questioning East Africa’s suitability to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), prompting a firm defence from Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The controversy unfolded during a pre-AFCON 2025 final press conference addressed by CAF president where Gaye openly cast doubt on the capacity of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania to successfully stage the tournament.
Gaye argued that the region lacks adequate infrastructure, particularly road networks, and suggested that the competition should potentially be moved elsewhere.
by NANCY AGUTU
