Race Against Time: East Africa Ramps Up Preparations for AFCON 2027 Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania push massive stadium and transport upgrades as the clock ticks toward East Africa’s first-ever joint AFCON hosting.
Kampala, Uganda
East Africa’s long-awaited moment on the continental stage is fast approaching as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania accelerate preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Branded under the regional identity “Pamoja – Together”, the tri-nation tournament is expected to redefine how Africa hosts major sporting events — but only if infrastructure obligations are met in time.
Uganda: Stadiums Rising, Deadlines Tight
Uganda is banking heavily on new sports infrastructure, with its most anticipated projects being:
Hoima Stadium, slated for completion by 2025/26, projected to host key tournament matches.
Akii Bua Stadium in Lira, a 20,000-seat facility expected to serve as a major competition venue.
Both projects are under pressure to finish on schedule, with contractors working around the clock to meet timelines that many critics say are “ambitious.”
Kenya & Tanzania: Heavy Lifting Continues
Kenya is upgrading Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium and constructing additional training pitches in the Rift Valley, while Tanzania is moving ahead with the Dodoma Stadium and the revamped Arusha Sports Complex, positioned to host group-stage matches.
Transport corridors, team accommodation facilities, and cross-border travel systems are also undergoing regional reviews to ensure the movement of fans, teams, and officials is seamless.
Regional Unity on Display
AFCON 2027 will be the first tri-national tournament in CAF history, and East Africa intends to use it as a showcase of integration, tourism potential, and renewed investment confidence.
Why It Matters
Economic Boost: Tourism windfall, job creation, hospitality expansion, and international attention.
Regional Identity: A chance to strengthen East Africa’s cooperation under the Pamoja identity.
Sports Legacy: New stadiums and improved sports infrastructure could uplift local football and youth programs for decades.
What to Watch For
- Stadium Completion Timelines – Delays could force CAF to reassign matches.
- Visa Policy Coordination – Will the region introduce a unified tournament visa?
- Security Preparedness – Cross-border fan movement requires high coordination.
- Budget Accountability – Rising construction costs could strain government finances.
- CAF Inspections – CAF’s next evaluation missions will determine readiness.
