Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania to Host the First-Ever Joint AFCON in 2027
East Africa’s joint bid to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) was officially sealed on Sunday night when CAF President Patrice Motsepe handed over the tournament flag to Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania under the banner Pamoja AFCON 2027. This symbolic handover marks the beginning of the preparations for the first-ever AFCON to be hosted by three East African nations, a moment celebrated as historic for both the region and the continent.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed expressed pride in the milestone, stating that the occasion represented a new chapter for East African football and placed a significant responsibility on the host nations. “Tonight marks a proud moment for our region as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania officially receive the flag to host AFCON 2027,” he 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 success in hosting the African Nations Championship (CHAN) as proof of its growing capacity to host 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 added. “The journey begins now.”
CAF President Patrice Motsepe, during the flag handover, urged the three countries to deliver a tournament that embodies Africa’s ambition, unity, and global football stature. “Over to you, East Africa — we must not let Africa down,” Motsepe emphasized.
The Pamoja AFCON 2027 tournament is expected to foster regional cooperation, accelerate infrastructure development, and spotlight East Africa’s football potential. As the countdown to one of Africa’s largest sporting events begins, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are ready to take on the monumental task of delivering a world-class tournament.
However, controversy stirred when Ivorian journalist Mamadou Gaye questioned East Africa’s suitability to host the event. During a pre-AFCON 2025 press conference, Gaye cast doubt on the region’s infrastructure, particularly road networks, suggesting that the competition might be better suited for another location. His comments sparked outrage and prompted a strong defense from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), who affirmed the region’s readiness and potential to host the tournament successfully.
